Negotiations
Salary Negotiation Email Email Template
Negotiate a higher salary or better compensation package after receiving an offer.
When to use this template
I received a job offer but the salary is below my expectations and I want to negotiate a higher amount.
Example subject line
Excited About the Offer — Thoughts on Compensation
Tips for writing this email
- Research market rates for your role and location using sites like Glassdoor or Levels.fyi before writing
- Anchor your request to a specific number or range rather than saying "I was hoping for more"
- Highlight the unique value you bring — specific skills, certifications, or experience that justify the ask
- Express enthusiasm for the role first, then transition into the compensation discussion
What to avoid
- Do not issue ultimatums like "I will not accept less than X" — it kills the collaborative tone
- Avoid apologizing for negotiating — it is a normal and expected part of the hiring process
- Do not negotiate multiple items at once in the first email — start with salary, then discuss benefits separately
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Generate This EmailFrequently Asked Questions
How much higher should I counter when negotiating salary?
Counter 10 to 20 percent above the initial offer, depending on market data for your role and location. Anchoring to a specific number backed by research is more effective than picking an arbitrary amount.
Will negotiating salary cause the company to withdraw my offer?
Extremely unlikely. Employers expect negotiation and will not rescind an offer because you asked professionally. The key is to be respectful, cite data, and frame it as a discussion rather than a demand.
Should I negotiate salary over email or phone?
Email is better for your initial counter because it gives you time to articulate your case clearly and creates a written record. If the recruiter prefers a call, send a follow-up email summarizing what was agreed.
You Might Also Need
Hiring
Job Offer Letter
Professional job offer letter for extending employment offers with salary, benefits, and start date details.
Rejections
Declining a Job Offer
Politely turn down a job offer while maintaining a positive relationship.
Firm Follow-ups
Follow-up After No Response
Follow up on an email or request that received no reply.
Other Negotiations Templates
Counter Offer Email
Respond to an offer with a counter-proposal on terms, price, or conditions.
Request for Contract Revision
Ask for changes to specific clauses or terms in an existing contract.
Price Negotiation Email
Negotiate better pricing with a vendor, supplier, or service provider.
Deadline Extension Request
Request additional time to complete a project or deliverable.
Scope Renegotiation Email
Renegotiate the scope of a project when requirements have changed.
Partnership Terms Negotiation
Negotiate the terms of a business partnership or collaboration agreement.
Vendor Pricing Negotiation
Negotiate volume discounts or better rates with an existing vendor.
Negotiating Project Timeline
Propose an adjusted timeline when original deadlines are unrealistic.