How do I negotiate a higher salary on a new job offer?
Got an offer 15% below what I hoped. I've never negotiated anything and I'm terrified they'll withdraw it. Is negotiating safe, and how do I actually do it?
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2 answers1.1K views2 Answers
Accepted answer
First, the fear: offers are almost never withdrawn for polite negotiation. By offer stage they've spent weeks and real money choosing you; a respectful counter is expected — recruiters budget for it.
The playbook:
1. Never accept on the call. 'Thank you, I'm excited — let me review and come back by Thursday.'
2. Counter in writing with a reason attached: 'Based on my [specific skill/competing data point] and market rates for this role, I was expecting something closer to X. Is there flexibility?' X = 10–20% above their number.
3. Then stop talking. The silence after a counter is where money moves. Don't negotiate against yourself.
4. If base is truly fixed, move the package: joining bonus, review after 6 months instead of 12, extra leave.
One honest caveat: negotiate once, firmly, not four times in dribbles. And only push hard on numbers you'd actually sign for.
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The single highest-leverage sentence in salary negotiation: 'I have another process reaching offer stage — is there anything you can do on the number?' Only say it if true, but if it IS true, say it. Competing interest moves comp bands that 'please' never will.
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