Salary Negotiation Email: Templates to Ask for More, Politely
Most employers expect some negotiation, and a polite, well-reasoned email rarely costs you the offer. Research the market first, ask for a specific number, give one or two reasons, and show enthusiasm for the role.
Timing
| When | What to send |
|---|---|
| Before you reply | Research salary ranges for the role and location; decide your target and walk-away number |
| Within 1–3 days of the offer | Send your counter (template 1 or 2) |
| If base salary is fixed | Negotiate benefits, bonus, remote days or start date (template 3) |
| After agreement | Ask for the updated offer in writing (template 5) |
Templates
Replace everything in {curly brackets}.
1. Counter offer on base salary
Subject: {Job title} offer – thank you
Dear {Name},
Thank you for the offer for the {Job title} role. I'm excited about joining {Company} and the work on {project}.
Based on my {X} years in {field}, my results in {key result} and market data for similar roles in {city}, I was hoping for a base salary of {target}. Is there flexibility to reach that figure?
I'm keen to accept and hope we can agree quickly.
Kind regards,
{Your name}
2. When you have a competing offer
Subject: Re: {Job title} offer
Dear {Name},
Thank you again for the offer. {Company} is my first choice. I have another offer at {amount}, and I'd prefer to join you. Could you match or come closer to that figure? If so, I'm ready to sign.
Best regards,
{Your name}
3. Negotiating benefits when salary is fixed
Subject: {Job title} offer – a few questions
Dear {Name},
I understand the base salary is fixed. Could we look at {signing bonus / an extra week of leave / two remote days a week / a professional development budget / a salary review after 6 months}? That would make the offer an easy yes for me.
Kind regards,
{Your name}
4. Asking for a later start date
Subject: Start date for {Job title}
Dear {Name},
I'm delighted to accept in principle. My notice period is {X weeks}, so could we set the start date as {date}? I want to hand over my current work properly.
Kind regards,
{Your name}
5. Accepting after negotiation
Subject: Acceptance – {Job title}
Dear {Name},
Thank you for working with me on the package. I'm happy to accept the offer of {Job title} at a base salary of {amount}, starting {date}. Could you please send the updated offer letter/contract for signature?
I'm looking forward to joining the team.
Best regards,
{Your name}
Tips
- Use a specific number, not a range you'd be unhappy at the bottom of.
- Base your ask on market data and your results, not personal expenses.
- Negotiate the whole package: bonus, leave, remote work, training, equity.
- Stay warm and brief. Never threaten.
- Get the final numbers in writing before you resign.
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Related
FAQ
Can negotiating cost me the offer?
It is rare when you are polite and reasonable. Most employers leave room in their first offer.
How much more should I ask for?
Commonly 5–15% above the offer, backed by market data. Ask for more only if the offer is clearly below market.
Should I negotiate by phone or email?
Email lets you word it carefully and gives the recruiter something to forward. Many people start by email and finish on a call.