How to negotiate salary for a job offer

To negotiate salary, wait for a written offer, research the market range for the role and location, choose one specific number you can explain, and ask for it politely with one short reason. Thank them, show genuine interest, then stop talking. If they push back, ask what flexibility exists instead of arguing or accepting on the spot.

Steps to negotiate your salary

Get the full offer in writing: base salary, bonus, equity, benefits, start date and title.
Look up the pay range for the role, level and location in two or three sources, including job postings that list pay.
Choose one counteroffer number and a private minimum below which you'd walk away.
Reply with thanks, genuine interest, the specific number and one reason tied to the role.
If they can't move on salary, ask about one other term, like a signing bonus or start date.
Get the final terms in writing before you accept.

What to say when you negotiate salary

"Thank you for the offer. I'm excited about the role and the team. Based on the scope of the position and the market range for similar roles, I'd like to ask for a base salary of $[number]. If we can get there, I'm ready to move forward."

Keep it that short. A clear number with one reason is easier to approve than a long explanation.

Common mistakes

Giving a number before you have the full offer
Asking for "a bit more" instead of a specific amount
Justifying the request with personal expenses
Claiming another offer you don't have
Accepting on the call before seeing the revised terms in writing

Questions

Is it rude to negotiate a job offer?

No. A polite, specific request is a normal part of hiring. What causes friction is ultimatums, bluffing or a long list of demands.

How much more should I ask for?

Base it on the market range and the role's scope rather than a fixed percentage. Choose one number you can explain in a sentence.

Should I negotiate by email or phone?

Either works. Email gives you time to be precise; a call can feel warmer. Many people send the email and are ready to discuss it on a call.

Do employers expect you to negotiate?

Many do, and some leave room in the first offer for exactly that. A polite, specific request is a normal part of the process.

What if they ask for my current salary?

In several US states employers can't ask for your salary history. You can redirect to your expectations for this role and the market range.

What can you negotiate besides salary?

Signing bonus, start date, remote or hybrid days, vacation, title, an early salary review, relocation support, equipment budget, or training. When base pay is capped, these are often where the flexibility is.

Should I negotiate my first job offer or an entry-level role?

You can, and many people do, but keep it modest and specific. Even when base pay is fixed by a program, a start date or a signing bonus is sometimes negotiable.

Who do I negotiate with: the recruiter or the hiring manager?

Usually the recruiter, who carries the request to the approvers. If the hiring manager made the offer directly, reply to them and keep the recruiter copied.

What questions should I ask when negotiating?

Ask what the pay range for the level is, what flexibility exists beyond base salary, when the first salary review happens and how bonuses are calculated.