Negotiating salary after receiving a job offer can feel intimidating, even for experienced professionals. Many worries about sounding ungrateful, asking for too much, or losing the offer altogether.
However, staying silent often means settling for less than you’re worth. According to Fidelity’s 2022 Career Assessment Study, 58 percent of people accepted their job offer without negotiating.
Yet among those who did negotiate, 85 percent received at least part of what they asked for. This shows that negotiation is not only acceptable but often effective.
The challenge lies in knowing what to say and how to say it professionally. A clear and well-crafted salary negotiation email template can make all the difference.
With the right structure and tone, you can confidently advocate for better pay or benefits while maintaining a positive relationship with your future employer.
In this article, you’ll find seven proven templates you can personalize and use to respond with clarity and confidence.
Read more: 7 Salary Negotiation Tips for Remote Workers
1. Salary Negotiation Email Template for an Offer Below Market Rate
When to use it:
You’ve received a job offer, but the salary is noticeably below market average for your role, industry, or location. You’ve done your research and want to respond professionally to ask for a more competitive offer.
Email Template:
Subject: Follow-up on Offer for [Job Title] Position
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thanks again for extending the offer. I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name].
After reviewing the numbers and comparing with current benchmarks (including Paysight), I noticed the base salary is slightly below the typical range for similar roles in [industry/location].
Given my background in [mention specialization or experience], would it be possible to adjust the offer to better reflect the current market and my skill set?
Looking forward to your thoughts and hoping we can find a win-win solution.
Best,
[Your Name]
2. Salary Negotiation Email Template When the Benefits Package Falls Short
When to use it:
The salary offer is acceptable, but the benefits like health coverage, PTO, or retirement contributions are not aligned with your expectations or industry standards.
Email Template:
Subject: Clarification on Benefits Package – [Job Title] Offer
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I wanted to thank you again for the offer and your support throughout this process. I’m really looking forward to the chance to contribute at [Company Name].
Before moving forward, I’d love to clarify a few details in the benefits package, particularly around [health insurance, PTO, or retirement]. Based on what I’ve seen across similar roles, there may be room to align a bit more closely with industry standards.
Is this something we can explore together?
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
3. Job Offer Negotiation Email Template If You’re Comparing Multiple Offers
When to use it:
You’re considering another offer and want to see if your preferred company can match or adjust theirs before you decide.
Email Template:
Subject: [Job Title] Offer – Additional Consideration
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for the offer. I’m truly honored and enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team.
As part of my decision-making process, I wanted to be transparent and let you know I’ve received another offer that’s a strong fit in terms of [compensation, flexibility, etc.]. That said, I remain very interested in [Company Name] and wanted to check whether there’s flexibility to revisit any part of the current offer.
Looking forward to discussing next steps.
Best,
[Your Name]
Read more: 12 Salary Negotiation Mistakes You Should Never Make
4. Salary Negotiation Email Template Highlighting Unique Qualifications
When to use it:
You believe the offer undervalues your specialized experience, certifications, or background that exceed standard role requirements.
Email Template:
Subject: [Job Title] Offer – Salary Adjustment Request
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you for the offer to join [Company Name]. I’m very excited about the potential to contribute and grow with your team.
After reviewing the offer, I’d love to revisit the salary component. Given my [mention your unique qualification—e.g., certifications, niche skills, or years in a similar role], I believe a slightly adjusted salary would better reflect the value I bring.
Based on current salary benchmarks and role expectations, I would appreciate consideration of an updated figure in the range of [$XX,XXX – $YY,YYY].
I look forward to your thoughts and appreciate the opportunity to continue this conversation.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
5. Salary Negotiation Email Template Requesting Flexible Work Options
When to use it:
You’re comfortable with the salary but want to negotiate remote work, hybrid setup, or flexible hours.
Email Template:
Subject: [Job Title] Offer – Flexibility Inquiry
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for the offer. I’m thrilled about the role and excited to join such an innovative team.
One area I’d love to explore is work flexibility. Having [a hybrid model / flexible start and end times] would allow me to maintain high productivity while also supporting my personal commitments.
If it’s something that fits within company policies, I’d be happy to discuss what a flexible setup could look like.
Appreciate your time and consideration,
[Your Name]
6. Negotiation Email Template After Verbal Acceptance but Before Signing
When to use it:
You’ve informally accepted an offer but, after reviewing the terms, realize you’d like to renegotiate before making it official.
Email Template:
Subject: [Job Title] Offer – Final Clarification Before Signing
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for offering me the [Job Title] role. I’m excited about the opportunity and appreciate your trust in me.
Before signing the formal agreement, I wanted to revisit one aspect of the offer. Specifically, I’d like to discuss [mention salary or benefit concern]. I’ve done some additional market research and feel a slight adjustment would better reflect the scope of the role and my qualifications.
I remain committed to joining [Company Name] and hope we can align on the final details. Let me know if we can schedule a time to talk.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
7. Salary Negotiation Email Template for Entry-Level Candidates
When to use it:
You’re new to the job market but want to negotiate respectfully without overstepping.
Email Template:
Subject: [Job Title] Offer – Salary Consideration
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the chance to start my career with [Company Name]. I’m enthusiastic and ready to contribute.
After reviewing the offer and doing research on entry-level ranges in this field, I wanted to ask if there’s flexibility for a small adjustment. I believe it would reflect both the value of the role and the effort I’ll bring from day one.
I truly appreciate your time and the opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
FAQ
- How do you politely negotiate salary in an email?
Start with a positive tone. Thank the employer for the offer, express enthusiasm for the role, then professionally bring up your salary request using phrases like, “I’d like to discuss the base salary before moving forward.” - How do you ask for a higher salary offer respectfully?
Use clear, polite language. Reference your research or competing offers without sounding confrontational. For example: “Based on market benchmarks and my qualifications, I’d appreciate consideration for a higher offer.” - Can I lose a job offer by negotiating salary?
It’s rare, but possible if the negotiation is handled poorly. Most employers expect some level of discussion. Keep your tone collaborative, not demanding, to reduce the risk. - What should I say when responding to a low salary offer?
Acknowledge the offer graciously and then present your case. You can say: “I’m grateful for the opportunity, but based on my experience and current market rates, I was hoping for something in the range of…” - How do you negotiate salary if you have another offer?
Be transparent without sounding like you’re issuing an ultimatum. Try: “I’ve received another offer that’s more competitive in terms of compensation, but I remain very interested in your team. Is there flexibility in the offer?” - How can entry-level candidates negotiate salary?
Yes, even if you’re early in your career, you can negotiate. Focus on data from salary benchmarks and your relevant skills or internships. Keep the request modest and show appreciation. - Should you mention specific numbers in your salary negotiation email?
Yes. Mentioning a specific range shows you’ve done your research and helps the employer respond more efficiently. Just make sure the numbers are realistic based on market data.
Why Using a Salary Negotiation Email Template Matters
Crafting a negotiation email isn’t just about asking for more, it’s about asking the right way. Without a clear structure, your message can come across as vague, emotional, or even unprofessional. That’s why having a salary negotiation email template gives you an edge. It helps you:
- Keep the tone professional and respectful
- Clearly outline your request with supporting context
- Avoid common mistakes like being too aggressive or too vague
- Save time while ensuring consistency in your communication
Templates act as a starting point, not a script. When customized thoughtfully, they allow you to advocate for your needs with confidence and clarity.
Need salary data to support your email? Use Paysight to compare salaries across roles, industries, and locations so you can negotiate from an informed position.
