Every two to three years start looking for another job - chances are you are being underpaid and holding out for a meaningful raise or promotion is usually a bad idea. Few companies seem to keep salaries properly indexed to the market. At least in IT.
When you get an offer - always always counter it. No reasonable business is going to withdraw an offer if you counter. Figure out what you're worth and add 5-10%. If the first offer is already on the 'high end' of the spectrum still counter and ask for a signing bonus, options, better year end bonus, or more vacation. That will most likely be the most profitable email/phone-call you'll have - at least until you repeat the process in 2-3 years.
Every two to three years start looking for another job - chances are you are being underpaid and holding out for a meaningful raise or promotion is usually a bad idea. Few companies seem to keep salaries properly indexed to the market. At least in IT.
When you get an offer - always always counter it. No reasonable business is going to withdraw an offer if you counter. Figure out what you're worth and add 5-10%. If the first offer is already on the 'high end' of the spectrum still counter and ask for a signing bonus, options, better year end bonus, or more vacation. That will most likely be the most profitable email/phone-call you'll have - at least until you repeat the process in 2-3 years.