Make your next executive move
— and make sure it pays.

Employer-side career and compensation strategy to help senior leaders get selected, build leverage throughout the hiring process, and maximize the eventual package without taking unnecessary risk.

As seen in

For VPs, Heads of Function and C-suite executives making consequential career moves.

The Salary Coach Method™

Step 1Get Your Phone Ringing

Create conversations beyond simply applying.

Step 2Sail Through Screeners

Advance without screening yourself out or lowballing your value.

Step 3Ace the Interview

Demonstrate impact and become the candidate they want.

Step 4Shape the Offer

Build leverage and use it to influence scope, level, timing, and the strength of the initial package.

Step 5Maximize the Package

Evaluate the full deal and navigate counters with safety and precision.

Put 30 years of employer-side hiring experience on your side of the table.

John Gates

John GatesFounder of Salary Coach

The pay negotiation starts earlier than most executives realize

The Salary Coach Method helps you build leverage early, preserve it through the process, and convert it into a stronger offer when it matters most. Executives who misunderstand the game can leave 5 to 6 figures on the table without realizing they have done it.

01

Build Leverage

Position yourself early so employers compete for you.

02

Preserve Leverage

Say the right things at each step so you never give it away.

03

Convert Leverage to Cash

Turn that position into a stronger, fully negotiated offer.

Proof it works

Real leaders. Real offers. Real results.

Emily Latham-Bolt

Emily Latham-Bolt

Sr. Director, People & Culture

“When it came time to negotiate, his approach was incredibly strategic … he helped me frame each ask thoughtfully and effectively, and navigate the conversation in a way that maximized the overall offer.”

Rob Hibner

Rob Hibner

AVP of Operations

“John’s advice helped me align the pay with my true value, and that resulted in a five-figure gain.”

Elizabeth Bacon

Elizabeth Bacon

Chief Information Officer

“His guidance brought greater clarity and strategy to the way I think about my career, my strengths, and the value I bring.”

It’s Not Just About Salary

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Executive clients often improve their total offer by 10–25%*

* Every negotiation is different. Results depend on the employer, role, compensation structure, leverage, and other circumstances. Past results are not a guarantee of future outcomes.

Two Pathways to Success

★ Most complete

Salary Coach Complete

When you’re stuck in the search.
Win the opportunity. Build leverage. Maximize the offer. Perfect for 6- or 7-figure earners.

  • Find the hidden roles
  • Get your phone ringing
  • Sail through the Screeners
  • Build Leverage Before the Offer
  • Ace the Interview
  • Evaluate the Entire Offer
  • Build Your Negotiation Strategy
  • Know Exactly What to Say
  • Navigate Counters Through Acceptance
  • Priority Access to John
  • Support from first conversation to signed offer

Offer stage

Offer Maximizer

When an offer is coming — maximize it without risking it.
Most clients add 5- or 6-figures to their offer package.

  • Find the hidden roles
  • Get your phone ringing
  • Sail through the Screeners
  • Build Leverage Before the Offer
  • Ace the Interview
  • Evaluate the Entire Offer
  • Build Your Negotiation Strategy
  • Know Exactly What to Say
  • Navigate Counters Through Acceptance
  • Priority Access to John
  • Support from first conversation to signed offer

Still have questions before you book?

See answers to the questions executives ask most about timing, pricing, negotiation risk, and how the Salary Coach Method works.