Do not accept immediately
Thank the employer, show genuine enthusiasm and ask when they need your response. Even if the offer looks strong, give yourself enough time to understand the complete package and prepare a considered reply.
Confirm the offer in writing. Base salary is only one part of the decision: review bonus, equity, pension, benefits, holiday, flexibility, title, start date, probation and any sign-on or relocation support.
Define your priorities before making the ask
Separate your ideal outcome from your minimum acceptable outcome. Decide which two or three elements matter most, and where you have flexibility.
- Target: the outcome you would be pleased to accept.
- Rationale: market evidence, relevant experience and the role's scope.
- Fallback: alternatives if base salary cannot move.
- Boundary: the point below which the opportunity no longer works.
Build an evidence-based case
Your argument should focus on the role and your fit, not on personal expenses. Useful evidence includes the level of responsibility, scarce or directly relevant experience, the value you can deliver quickly, competing offers and credible market benchmarks.
Use clear, collaborative language
Start with enthusiasm, then make one direct request. For example: “I am excited about the role and would like to make this work. Based on the scope of the position and my experience in X, could we explore a base salary closer to Y?”
Stop after the question. Do not weaken the request by immediately negotiating against yourself. Let the employer respond.
Prepare for likely pushback
- “This is our best offer.” Ask whether another element of the package can move.
- “The salary is fixed for the level.” Clarify whether level, sign-on bonus, review timing or flexibility can be reconsidered.
- “What would make you accept?” State the priority outcome without inventing a false deadline or competing offer.
- “We need an answer today.” Request a short, specific extension where possible.
Know when to close the conversation
One well-prepared counteroffer is often enough. If the employer improves the package meaningfully, acknowledge the movement and decide. If they cannot move, compare the final offer with your priorities.
Negotiate the package you actually value. An extra benefit you will never use is not a substitute for the issue that matters most.
Frequently asked questions
Can an employer withdraw an offer because I negotiate?
A reasonable, professional request is a normal part of many hiring processes, but no outcome is guaranteed. Avoid ultimatums, false claims and an adversarial tone.
Should I reveal my current salary?
Where possible, keep the discussion focused on the role, market and package required for the move. Legal rules about salary-history questions vary by location.
What if the base salary cannot change?
Consider a sign-on bonus, equity, bonus target, earlier salary review, additional leave, flexibility, title or professional-development support.
Salary negotiation coaching helps you define the ask, test the rationale and practise likely employer responses.
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