When we discuss an opportunity that is of interest to you, tell me.  Don’t play hard to get.  Believe it or not, ad agencies are paying more for candidates that show a genuine interest in their company. If you think by playing the “well, if the money is right, I’ll take the job” game is the way to entice them to pay you more, you’re sadly mistaken, my friend. Also, if you plan on accepting a counter-offer to stay at your current company, here’s a word of advice. Don’t.  Don’t do it.  It won’t be in your best interest.  Sure, you may get a few extra dollars today. But, the next time a lay-off hits your company, the first people they will cut, are those who have shown any disloyalty. So, here’s what you do:  if you truly feel you deserve a raise, just go to your boss and demand a raise. Seriously.  If you get one, congratulations!  Note, most raises are around between 4 and 5% these days. If you don’t get one, you’ll know it’s probably time to start looking around. By the way, most salary increases for changing jobs these days is around 10%–don’t be expecting to get 25% or more. Those rarely happen. Just pay your dues, and your rewards will come.