Salary Counter Offer Email Templates
These templates cover the five most common salary negotiation scenarios. Copy, customize the bracketed parts, and send.
1. Standard Counter (Base Salary)
Template
Hi [Name],Thank you again for the offer. I am genuinely excited about joining [Company] and contributing to [specific goal/project].
After reviewing the full compensation package, I would like to discuss the base salary. Based on market data for [role] at [level] in [location], the typical range is \$[low]-\$[high]. Given my experience with [specific skill], I would like to propose \$[target].
I am excited about this role and want to make it work. Happy to discuss.
Best,
[Your name]
2. Leveraging a Competing Offer
Template
Hi [Name],I wanted to be transparent — I have received another offer that is [\$X / X% higher] in base salary. However, [Company] remains my top choice because [specific reason — team, mission, role fit].
Is there flexibility to bring the base closer to \$[target]? If so, I am ready to sign immediately.
Best,
[Your name]
3. Asking for Sign-On Bonus Instead
Template
Hi [Name],I understand the base may be at the top of your range. To bridge the gap, would you consider a sign-on bonus of \$[amount]? This would make the total package work for me, and I am excited to get started.
Best,
[Your name]
4. Negotiating Equity or RSUs
Template
Hi [Name],Thank you for the offer. The base and bonus look great. I did want to ask about the equity component — is there flexibility on the RSU grant amount or the vesting schedule? [Specific ask, e.g., "an additional \$10K in RSUs" or "a 3-year vest with 1-year cliff"].
Happy to discuss.
Best,
[Your name]
5. Accepting After Negotiation
Template
Hi [Name],Thank you for working with me on the compensation. I am thrilled to accept the offer at \$[agreed base] with [agreed bonus/equity].
I am excited to join the team and get started. Please send over the formal offer letter and I will sign right away.
Best,
[Your name]
Always send within 24 hours of receiving the offer. Timeliness signals professionalism.
All Negotiation Scripts + Offer Comparison Tool
The Career Catalyst Toolkit includes every negotiation script plus a weighted offer comparison spreadsheet.
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