It may sound strange but there's a single sentence you can say that can significantly make you more money, without any more effort or time from you.
How do we get that salary figure which we certainly want, and feel we are worth?
This same question can apply to both our present job, where we often are not earning what we desire, or to a new position for which we are currently negotiating.
And, the answer to what the most logical, effective, time-saving method of raising our pay is exactly the same---Ask.
Most people are reluctant to ask for higher wages, and, even when they take the plunge and do so, they come across as supplicative, weak and unconvinced of the credibility of their argument.
Or, on the other end of the continuum, are those who demand more money is an offensive, ham-handed manner which drips of a air of entitlement. Instead, we need to follow a couple of simple steps in discussing a raise, or a higher starting salary with a new employer:
1) First, tell the hiring officials how appreciative you are for your current job, or new job offer, and how excited you are to either keep doing great things for the boss, or to take on that new opportunity.
2) Then, pivot calmly and confidently to the salary issue at a moment which feels right, and ask politely (yet confidently) whether there might be some flexibility of moving you to a higher salary figure. Don't be vague; identify the specific amount which you believe fair and desirable.
3) Finally, provide definitive rationale for why you believe a higher wage is warranted. For example, note a few (not several pages) of your accomplishments and contributions to the company if you now on staff. If interviewing for a new job, laying out the higher cost of living for you and your family of relocating for the new position would be appropriate. Do not just float out a request for higher pay without any concrete reasoning which supports you.