Where is that exception that appearing "fair" or "cheap" helps you? If there's another candidate equally qualified and liked by the company, they company will h

Where is that exception that appearing "fair" or "cheap" helps you? If there's another candidate equally qualified and liked by the company, they company will hire the cheaper one - but as a candidate, you shouldn't bank on this situation happening. If you were hired as a "cheap" employee, when a new position or opportunity comes up, you would have to negotiate yourself up to your fair-market value and then some in order to get that better offer. Better to start high and work higher than come-from-behind with a low price anchoring your value.