Know the band model before you negotiate
Three common models — single national band, tiered geo-bands, full localization.
- Single band — easiest to negotiate up; cite top-of-band comps
- Tiered — push for the next tier with a credible alternative
- Localized — relocation or alternate location can move you up a band
Levers unique to remote
Home-office stipend, work-from-anywhere days, co-working, equipment refresh.
- Annual home-office stipend (typical $1–3k)
- 30-day work-from-anywhere clause
- 2-year equipment refresh
When to walk
Below the bottom of your researched market band is rarely a negotiation — it's a signal.
- If sign-on is the only lever moving, the base is structural
- If the band is fixed, the role grade is the real conversation