How to Negotiate Salary After a Job Offer
Receiving a job offer is a major milestone, but it is just the beginning of the final stage. Learn how to construct a professional counter-offer strategically.
Step 1: Express Gratitude and Request Time
When the employer extends the offer, always start by expressing sincere excitement and thankfulness. However, do not accept immediately on the call. Ask for the offer details in writing and request 48 to 72 hours to review the package with your family or advisors.
Step 2: Review the Entire Package (Not Just Base Salary)
Compensation is a multi-dimensional system. Evaluate the entire rewards package:
- Base Salary: The core recurring wage.
- Signing / Annual Bonuses: One-time payments or performance targets.
- Equity / Options: RSUs or stock options (essential for tech companies).
- Health & Welfare: Health premiums, retirement matches (e.g., 401k), HSA deposits.
- Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, paid holidays, and flexible schedules.
Step 3: Analyze Local Market Benchmarks
Use tools like our Average Salary Table to find median values for your role in your specific city or remote area. Employers respond to objective market data. Having clear percentiles (25th, 50th, 75th) allows you to justify your counter-proposal with facts instead of feelings.
Step 4: Formulate Your Counter-Proposal
Aim for a counter-offer that is 10% to 20% higher than the initial offer, assuming it falls within reasonable market ranges. Have a specific target number and a slightly higher "stretch" number so there is room to compromise.
Step 5: Send a Polite written Counter-Offer or Schedule a Call
Send a structured email highlighting your interest in the position, citing typical market salary ranges in the local area, summarizing your primary achievement, and presenting your target number. Alternatively, use our conversational generator on the homepage to write this email draft instantly.