A Step-by-Step Guide to Negotiating a Job Offer

Nothing compares to the excitement you feel when you see your dream job offer pop up in your inbox. Many people are so ecstatic about having been offered a role that they forget that most companies are willing to negotiate a higher salary, and make the mistake of signing their contract then and there. 

It’s important to understand that negotiating your salary is a normal part of the employment process, and getting the salary you deserve is part of advancing in your career. Your salary is more than a deposit to your bank account: it’s how your company shows you that they appreciate your work and value you and your skills. Your salary is also how your company supports your work-life balance, career development, work flexibility, and health-related perks.

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Step 1: Find Out What You’re Worth

Start out by doing some research into how much people in similar roles at other companies are being paid. This will help you to get an understanding of the job market and how competitive it is, which will put you in a stronger position when negotiating your salary. Recruiters are a good source of information, as are websites like LinkedIn and Glassdoor. It’s also helpful to reach out to family or friends in similar job positions for some first-hand insight. You could also ask colleagues you trust in your current role and see what their thoughts are.

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Step 2: Ask if the offer is negotiable

Reach out to your recruiter or hiring manager. Thank them for the offer, reiterate your interest in the role and your appreciation for their time, then simply ask if the offer you received is negotiable. The worst thing they can say is no!

Example: “Hi [Manager’s name],

Thank you so much for the offer to join your company! I'm so excited to work alongside you and your wonderful team. I've enjoyed every interaction with your organisation thus far and sincerely appreciate your time.

I wanted to ask if this offer is negotiable. If so, I’d love to arrange a time to discuss it with you at your earliest convenience. 

Thanks again for extending the official offer to become part of your team! I look forward to hearing from you. 

Best regards,

[Your name]

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Step 3: The Negotiation 

If your hiring manager responds with a yes, that’s great news! They will likely call you very soon to begin the negotiation. 

Review your key talking points, the numbers you're going to suggest, and the explanation for why your proposed compensation increase is justified. Have your notes with you and remember that the outcome of the first round of negotiation isn't usually the final verbal agreement. It's an agreement for both sides to do some thinking and regroup. 

Often, the call will end with them saying they will discuss your request internally and get back to you. 

The company will usually come back with a different number: a counteroffer. They will most likely try their best to come up with something that is more aligned with the figures you mentioned during the first phone call. Remember: their goal is to come to an agreement over an offer that feels fair to both parties. 

If you're not sure whether you want to accept the offer, it's acceptable to say -- "Great. Do you mind if I take 24-hours to think it over?"

Regardless of how the conversation ends, it's important to thank your employer for taking the time to negotiate with you. This will highlight your professionalism and show the employer you respect them and their time,  which is more likely to get you what you want, along with being the right thing to do.

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