Salary Negotiation Email Templates
Free, proven email templates for negotiating your salary. Customize placeholders and copy to send.
Editable Placeholders
Each template includes placeholders you should replace with your own information before sending.
5 Negotiation Tips
Always negotiate
85% of employers expect it. You are almost never penalized for asking respectfully.
Use specific numbers, not ranges
Say "$95,000" not "$90,000-$100,000." A range tells the employer your floor, and that is what they will offer.
Lead with your value, not your needs
Talk about what you bring to the company, not what you need to pay your bills. Frame every ask around the impact you will deliver.
Get it in writing
Verbal promises are forgotten. Before you accept, make sure every part of the package is documented in the offer letter.
Practice your pitch
Rehearse your key points before the call. The more natural you sound, the more confident you will come across.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I negotiate salary?
Always negotiate if the initial offer is below your market rate. The best time is after receiving a written offer but before accepting. Most employers expect negotiation and build room into their initial offers.
How much should I counter offer?
Counter 10-20% above the initial offer, supported by market data. Use salary comparison tools to find the median for your role and location, then ask for the 75th percentile if your experience justifies it.
Should I negotiate via email or phone?
Email is often better because it gives you time to craft your message carefully, creates a paper trail, and lets the hiring manager review your request without pressure. Follow up with a call if needed.
Back up your negotiation with a strong resume
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