A good salary negotiation email thanks the employer for the offer, names a specific number, gives a one-or two-sentence reason based on market data or experience, and ends with a question that invites a reply. Keep it under 200 words. Below are templates you can copy for the most common situations.
When to Negotiate Salary Over Email
A phone or video call is usually best for negotiating, because tone is easier to read and you can respond in real time. Email is the right choice when:
- The recruiter has been communicating mainly by email
- You’re in a different time zone or can’t easily take a call
- You want your counteroffer in writing so nothing gets lost
- You need to confirm what you agreed on a call
What to Include in a Salary Negotiation Email
- A clear subject line, such as “Re: Offer for Senior Analyst Role”
- Thanks and enthusiasm for the role
- Your specific ask, as a number, not a vague request
- One or two reasons, based on market data, experience or a competing offer
- Openness, such as “Is there flexibility here?”
- A short, warm close
How to Negotiate Salary Offer: Example Emails
Template 1: Counteroffer on base salary
Subject: Re: Offer for Senior Analyst Role Hi Jordan,
Thank you so much for the offer. I’m excited about the role and the chance to work with the analytics team.
After reviewing the offer and researching similar roles in Chicago, I’d like to ask whether we can bring the base salary to $98,000. My experience building the forecasting models you described in the
interview means I can contribute from the first month.
Is there flexibility to get there? I’m happy to talk by phone if that’s easier. Best, Priya
Template 2: When you have a competing offer
Subject: Re: Offer for Product Manager Role Hi Sam,
Thank you again for the offer. This role is my first choice, and I’d love to make it work.
I’ve received another offer with a base salary of $125,000. I’d prefer to join your team. Would you be able to match or come closer to that number?
I’d be ready to accept quickly if we can find a number that works. Thanks, Alex
Only use this template if the competing offer is real.
Template 3: Asking for a signing bonus instead
Subject: Re: Offer for Marketing Manager Role Hi Taylor,
Thanks for getting back to me. I understand the base salary is set at the top of the range for this role.
Would a signing bonus of $8,000 be possible? It would help offset the annual bonus I’ll give up by leaving my current role before year-end.
I’m excited to get started and appreciate you looking into this. Best, Morgan
Template 4: Asking for an early salary review
Subject: Re: Offer for Data Engineer Role Hi Chris,
I appreciate you checking on the salary. I understand the budget is fixed for now.
Would you be open to a salary review after six months, based on agreed goals? That would give me a clear path to the number we discussed.
Thanks for working with me on this, Jamie
Template 5: Accepting the negotiated offer
Subject: Re: Updated Offer, Accepted Hi Jordan,
Thank you for working with me on the offer. I’m happy to accept the updated base salary of $96,000 and a start date of March 2.
Could you send the revised offer letter for me to sign? I’m looking forward to joining the team.
Best, Priya
Tips to Negotiate Salary Over Email
- Reply within one or two business days. Waiting too long can signal low interest.
- Use one number, not a range. A range invites the employer to choose the bottom.
- Keep it short. Long emails full of justification can sound defensive.
- Read it out loud before sending. If it sounds demanding, soften the wording.
- Don’t apologize for asking. “Sorry to ask, but…” weakens your request.
- Follow up once. If you don’t hear back in three business days, send a brief, friendly check-in.
Mistakes to Avoid in a Salary Negotiation Email
- Making the case about personal expenses
- Sending an ultimatum (“I’ll need $X or I’ll have to decline”)
- Asking for far above the posted range without explanation
- Negotiating several items in separate emails over several days
- Using a vague ask like “Can you do better?”
For Employers: Replying to a Counteroffer Email
When a counteroffer arrives by email, recruiters often have to check with a manager, finance and HR before they can answer. That back-and-forth slows hiring and can lead to rushed approvals.
Stello AI’s AI compensation agent, Iconic, lets recruiters check a counteroffer in seconds: where the new number sits against the market, the team median and the band midpoint. That makes it easier to reply the same day, with a number you can defend. See how Iconic handles offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you write a salary negotiation email?
Thank the employer, name a specific salary, give one or two reasons based on market data or experience, and end by asking if there’s flexibility. Keep it under 200 words.
Is it okay to negotiate salary over email?
Yes. Many recruiters communicate by email, and it gives you time to word your request carefully. A call works better for back-and-forth, so offer one if needed.
How much should I ask for in a salary negotiation email?
Many candidates ask for 5% to 10% above the initial offer, backed by market data. If the job posting listed a range, stay within it.
What subject line should I use for a salary negotiation email?
Reply in the same thread with the original subject, such as “Re: Offer for Senior Analyst Role,” so the recruiter has the full context.
What if they don’t reply to my salary negotiation email?
Wait three business days, then send a short, friendly follow-up asking if they’ve had a chance to review your note.
