I've always negotiated by the "open book" method [1]. I've said that I want a fair market salary and I've shown that I am aware what the market is. I have always ended up at market or above, and I'm really not exceptional. I guess I'm just a good negotiator.<p>[1] <i>The advantages of sharing information during negotiation have been well documented. </i> <a href="http://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/negotiation-skills-daily/what-to-share-in-negotiation/" rel="nofollow">http://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/negotiation-skills-daily/wh...</a>