<prompt> Human: Im preparing to be promoted to a new title at work I.T.. With this promotion comes a very significant pay increase 100, partly due to my salary now being under average. It is a public employer so I am able to view the previous employees salary which was 72k. I will be fulfilling the same responsibilities as the last employee. I am wondering what are some tips to help me best negotiate a starting salary similar to what the previous employee earned.  <response>: Its best to have a floorthe amount of money the negotiation starts at and youre not going to accept a penny less than the floor. If you want significantly more than the floor, you must have reasons that distinguish you from the previous job-holder. Your skills, training, and experience that simply makes you worth more money. You must also decide what youre willing to settle for without feeling resentment when you agree to the final amount. And finally, dont negotiate with yourself. Meaning, if the employer makes an offer and then you make a counter offer, you must wait for them to reply and take your time to consider their reply. If the deadline permits, take the weekend and think about it, and discuss it with your spouse and trusted friends. Then decide if you want to take it or make another counter offer. Good luck! 