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Salary negotiation

Negotiating is normal and expected. Prepare your numbers, keep it collaborative and get the full package in writing.

How to negotiate

  1. Research. Use salary surveys, job postings that list pay, professional associations and trusted contacts in the field. Compare like for like: role, seniority, location.
  2. Delay the first number. If asked early, say you are focused on fit and would like to understand the full scope first. If pressed, give a researched range, not a single figure.
  3. Respond, don’t react. Thank them for the offer, express genuine enthusiasm and ask for time to review the full package in writing.
  4. Make one clear counter. Anchor at the upper end of your range with a short, evidence-based reason. Then stop talking.
  5. Negotiate the package. If base salary is fixed, consider sign-on bonus, start date, remote work, title, leave, training budget or an early salary review.
  6. Close it in writing. Once agreed, ask for the updated offer in writing before resigning from your current job.

Scripts you can adapt

When asked for expectations early

I’d like to learn more about the responsibilities first so I can give you a fair number. Based on my research for similar roles, I’m looking at a range of [X–Y]. Is that in line with your budget?

Countering an offer

Thank you — I’m excited about this role and the team. Based on my experience with [specific strength] and market data for similar positions, I was hoping for a base salary closer to [X]. Is there flexibility to get there?

When salary is fixed

I understand the base salary is set. Would you be open to discussing [a sign-on bonus / an additional week of leave / a six-month salary review] to help close the gap?

Accepting

Thank you for working with me on this. I’m happy to accept the offer of [details]. Could you send the updated offer letter so I can sign it?

Plan your range

Enter the market data you found. We suggest an opening ask and a walk-away point.

These are starting points calculated from your inputs, not market data. Adjust them for your experience, location and the role’s scope.