In Denver, Rebecca Epstein is looking for a new job as a development director and — with 20 years of experience — she’s now a finalist for the top fund-raising job at two organizations. One potential employer has made a salary offer, but “frankly, it feels a little low,” Ms. Epstein wrote to colleagues in an online discussion list maintained by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Her question for fellow fund raisers: How much should she ask for?

“Here is my rule of thumb,” came the response sent by Terry Scott Boykie, director of development at the Washington Math Science Technology Public Charter School, in the District of Columbia .“Forget about salary ranges for a particular [geographic] area. Accept nothing less than a 30-percent increase and that includes vacation. Lower than that and you’ll never move to the next plateau.”

“Shame on all of us if we think asking for 30 percent is too much,” Mr. Boykie continued. “We are pros, and we deserve real compensation.”

What do you think? Is Mr. Boykie right or is his recommended 30-percent increase too much to ask (or hope) for?