Case Study 1: The Underpaid Engineer
Before: David K., Software Engineer, $95,000 - 3 years without meaningful raise - Discovered 40% below market - Afraid to negotiate
Negotiation Strategy: - Built detailed market analysis - Documented $2M in cost savings - Got competing offer - Presented business case
Results: - Immediate: 30% base increase - 6 months: Promotion + 15% - Year 2: Retention bonus - Current: $145,000 (53% increase)
Case Study 2: The Strategic Executive
Before: Maria R., Director, $125,000 - Strong performer - Company budget constraints - Limited promotion path
Creative Negotiation: - Accepted modest base increase - Negotiated phantom equity - Got executive coach budget - Added board observer role
Total Value Created: - Base: $135,000 (+8%) - Phantom equity: $200,000 potential - Coaching: $25,000 value - Board exposure: Invaluable - Total: 100%+ increase in value