Interpretation bands
- 0.75+ strong: suitable for assertive negotiation anchors.
- 0.55 to 0.74 usable: directional with supporting evidence.
- Below 0.55 thin: useful for context, weak for hard commitments.
Confidence score guide
Confidence score is a reliability signal, not a truth guarantee
A confidence score helps you estimate whether a benchmark is strong enough for a high-stakes decision. Use it together with sample size, source breadth, and freshness. Never read it in isolation.
What usually lowers confidence
- Small sample depth for the exact route.
- Narrow source mix concentrated in one channel.
- Stale observations relative to current market movement.
- Modeled backing without enough observed support.
Decision rule
The weaker the confidence score, the smaller the commitment you should make. Use weak routes to frame hypotheses, not to lock salary floors, relocate quickly, or commit to aggressive freelance quotes.
Practical checks
Before negotiation
If score is moderate, keep your ask but add flexibility in structure and timeline.
Before relocation
Require alignment across salary, demand, and route freshness. One strong metric is not enough.
Before contracting switch
Treat modeled contractor routes as a quote scaffold, then validate with recent live demand.
Frequently asked questions
Is confidence score a prediction of my exact outcome?
No. Confidence score is a reliability signal for route evidence, not a guarantee of your personal salary or contract result.
How should I use low-confidence routes?
Use low-confidence routes directionally for exploration, then validate with nearby stronger routes and live demand signals before committing.
What should I check alongside confidence score?
Review sample depth, freshness, and source breadth together. Confidence should be interpreted as part of this full evidence stack.