Tips for Negotiating Salary After Job Offer

You got the offer. Now breathe. This guide shows negotiating salary after job offer with a calm, simple plan. You will know what to say and when.

A 48-Hour Plan for negotiating salary after job offer

First, set a clear timeline. Ask for two business days to review. Most teams will agree.

• Hours 0–2: Thank them. Confirm the deadline. Ask for the full offer in writing.
• Hours 2–12: Research pay for your role and level. Save three data sources. Note your top wins that match the job.
• Hours 12–24: Set your target and floor. Map trade-offs you can accept.
• Hours 24–36: Call your contact. Share your ask and why. Stay warm and brief.
• Hours 36–48: Send a recap email. Restate your value. Ask about next steps and timing.

These steps make negotiating salary after job offer feel clear and calm.

Need ideas on what to look up? Read more tips on our blog. You can also review related guides like salary offer tips for extra context.

Define Your Ask: Total Pay, Not Just Base

Your ask should cover the full package. That way you have room to trade. List the parts you can move.

• Base pay
• Sign-on bonus
• Annual bonus
• Equity or RSUs
• Relocation or remote stipend
• PTO or unpaid leave
• Title and scope
• Review in 6 months

Pick two must-haves and two nice-to-haves. Share them in order. Moreover, tie each one to impact you will drive.

Pick Your Anchor

Set an anchor that is 10–15% above your target. Back it with market data. Share a range with a firm floor.

• Based on X, Y, and Z data, peers land between 110k and 125k.
• Given the scope, I am targeting 122k, with a floor of 118k.

Choose Email or Call

Email is great for clear numbers. A call is best for tone and speed. Use both. In addition, call first, then email a short recap.

Sample email:

Subject: Offer follow-up

Thanks again for the offer. I am excited about the role. Based on market data and impact, I am seeking 122k base, a 10k sign-on, and a six-month review. If we can get close, I can sign this week.

Sample call lines:

• I am thrilled to join the team.
• Based on data and scope, I am targeting 122k base.
• If base is tight, could we add a 10k sign-on or a sooner review?

Want to practice your ask and tone? Try a mock call and start practicing your script until it feels easy.

Handle Pushback With Calm Yes/No Paths

Plan your replies before you hear no. Keep it kind and firm. Here are simple lines you can use.

• I see. If base is set, could we move the sign-on to 12k?
• Understood. Could we shift the title to Senior, with the same pay band?
• Thanks. If equity is fixed, can we add two extra PTO days?
• I can be flexible. If we meet at 120k, I can accept today.

If they still cannot move, pause. Ask when the band may change. Suggest a six-month review tied to clear goals. For deeper prep on tone and timing, you can also read this guide on confidence.

Lock It In and Keep Doors Open

Once you agree, get the new terms in writing. Check every line.

• Base, bonus, equity, sign-on, and any draws
• Title, level, team, and location
• Start date and work setup
• Any special notes, like visa or relo

Then tell other firms you are near a decision. Ask for their timeline. Do not ghost. If you must wait, say so with a clear date.

Finally, send a simple thank-you note. Name one part of the job you love. Restate how you plan to drive value in month one.

Bring It All Together

You can lead this talk with skill and care. Use this plan for negotiating salary after job offer and keep your tone warm. Practice your lines. Track your wins. It will pay off.