There have been recent changes in our ability to offer you additional steps when you are a new federal employee. The step 1 is all we will be offering.Welcome to the Salary Negotiations workshop. Many people don't know this, but YES—you can negotiate your federal salary and get a higher step before getting hired. Negotiating your salary when you get a new job offer can be nerve-wracking. However, there are proven techniques that can help you effectively negotiate. Matching your current salary is the easiest way to get the amount you want. If you currently make less, that's a lot tougher. We explain how to structure a salary negotiation email and how to present the best case for a pay rise. The first line of the letter body will reference the specific job offer.