When speaking to your professional worth, you want to exude the body language of a confident and relaxed person. If you don't believe you are worth what you say you are, no one else will. So, keep your body language open and unguarded, arms resting on the armrests of your chairs, and hands open and relaxed. Lean forward, make eye contact with your camera, and keep your shoulders lowered and relaxed. Remember, they want to know more about you, and there is no greater authority on that subject than you.

"I am currently making 98,000 per year with two bonus opportunities based on company profits. Based on my track record, I anticipate getting two pay increases of 5% this year. Your benefits offerings are quite generous, and everything but your retirement package is comparable to what I currently receive. I am looking for a compensation plan aligned with the role that provides an opportunity for growth. I look forward to discussing the details of this role so that we can determine a fair compensation plan."

Investigate the job, analyze the proposed salary, and compare it to your present income, benefits, and perks, such as retirement, vacation, and medical care. You can also volunteer any benefits offered by your current employer to retain you and calculate what your annual income will look like after another one to two performance evaluations. Be transparent, and don't provide them with a final figure. Share where you are in your career and how it's your goal to find an employer who feels like the right fit regarding culture, working environment, and developmental opportunities. Explain you are hoping they'll recognize your professional worth and would be willing to incentivize you to move over to their teams. This keeps the conversation going without closing the door on negotiations.