Oh I'd say make the range start at a couple thousand more than you really want, and make the top more than that. If you give a number first they're going to try

Oh I'd say make the range start at a couple thousand more than you really want, and make the top more than that. If you give a number first they're going to try to go down from there so you want to start higher. To get what you think is fair you have to pad the low number. But make sure you are realistic. What are your peers making? What's the going salary, not only in your field, but your area? But if you can, get them to move first. It might get awkward but they are the ones that know how much they can pay. My Dad's old rule was this: "You can afford a house that is two times what you make, gross, in one year. So if you make $80,000, you can afford a $160,000 house. If you want a bigger house, ask for more money." Just be sure you're worth it. There's no shame in being good and getting a fair pay for it. The right company would probably still be getting a bargain :)