I'd say companies usually have a budget for a given position. If you ask for a salary way higher than the budget they can't match it. If it's a bit higher than

I'd say companies usually have a budget for a given position. If you ask for a salary way higher than the budget they can't match it. If it's a bit higher than the budget and they need your skills I suppose there can be some negotiation from both sides, not necessarily on the salary. If it's way below their budget they would probably think you don't have the experience or are not confident in your abilities. If it's within the budget, there can be a negotiation, but usually you're good. Some companies like to hire as low as possible within the budget. Some companies want the best talent and will pay whatever as long as it ia within the budget. So in short, you can try anchoring high if you know that will be at least in the ballpark of the budget for that position even if it's at the higher end.