For some reason Paul's post seems targeted at the job interview process. With respect to point #1, it seems like it's rare that as an employee you will write your own contract, or that if you did, your employer would accept it.
Yes. The other Paul's advice covers a different ground.
Though Paul D. Windsor, Esq., the lawyer, writes:
'In my profession, [starting with your own proposal] is known as "controlling the document." It is often true that he who controls the document controls the deal. Psychologically, if the negotiation begins with with your proposals, it's likely to proceed from your perspective and not the other guy's. The end result is much more likely to be in your favor under such circumstances. Most people in the real world are too lazy to draft their own contracts and, if they do, often do a poor job. Always be the first to present the contract. By doing so, you are taking the initiative in setting the terms of the deal for the remainder of the negotiations.'
