📅 Published: June 10, 2026
Salary negotiation feels scary because nobody wants to lose an offer. But a polite, specific email is not rude. It is normal professional communication, especially when you have a written offer.
Quick answer
Thank them, show interest, give a clear range or number, connect it to your experience, and ask whether there is flexibility. Keep the tone calm.
Thank them, show interest, give a clear range or number, connect it to your experience, and ask whether there is flexibility. Keep the tone calm.
Simple negotiation template
Template
Hi [Name], thank you again for the offer. I am excited about the role and the chance to contribute to [team/company]. Based on the responsibilities, my experience with [skill/area], and the market for similar roles, I was hoping to discuss a salary closer to [$X]. Is there any flexibility in the offer?
Hi [Name], thank you again for the offer. I am excited about the role and the chance to contribute to [team/company]. Based on the responsibilities, my experience with [skill/area], and the market for similar roles, I was hoping to discuss a salary closer to [$X]. Is there any flexibility in the offer?
If they cannot move salary
Template
Thank you for checking. If salary flexibility is limited, is there room to discuss a signing bonus, earlier performance review, additional PTO, equipment stipend, certification support, or schedule flexibility?
Thank you for checking. If salary flexibility is limited, is there room to discuss a signing bonus, earlier performance review, additional PTO, equipment stipend, certification support, or schedule flexibility?
What you can negotiate
- base salary
- hourly rate
- signing bonus
- PTO
- remote equipment stipend
- certification reimbursement
- schedule flexibility
- start date
- review timeline
- job title clarity
What not to write
- I need more money because I have bills
- This offer is too low and insulting
- I have many offers if you do not fix this
- Can you do better?
- I will accept only if you match a number you cannot explain
Before you send
Know your minimum, your target, and your walk-away number. Negotiation is easier when you are not inventing numbers while emotional.
Final thought
Good negotiation is respectful, clear, and calm. You are not begging; you are asking whether the offer can better match the value of the role.
Helpful DamnJobs Resources
Before you send another application, make sure the resume, role, and keywords actually match.
Sources and useful references: