Negotiating is not a fight. It is a short, factual conversation about matching a role to market value.
Before you talk numbers, get a range. Look at posted salary ranges for the same title in the same metro. Cities differ enormously: the same role can pay 30% more in San Francisco than in Columbus, and remote roles are increasingly priced to a national band.
When asked your expectations early, give a range with a reason: "Based on what I have seen for this role in Denver, I am targeting 95 to 110, and I am flexible depending on the full package."
When an offer comes in, thank them, ask for it in writing, and take a day. Then counter once, specifically: "I am excited about this. Can we get base to 118? That would reflect the vendor management piece we discussed."
Remember what else is negotiable: signing bonus, start date, PTO, remote days, title, review timing, and education budget. If base is capped, one of those usually is not.
Get the final number in writing before you resign anything.