Salary negotiation email template
A salary negotiation email that works has four parts: a warm thank-you, one clear specific request, supporting evidence such as market data and your value, and a positive close that keeps the door open. Keep it to three short paragraphs, give an exact number rather than a range, and stay collaborative - neither apologetic nor demanding.
The four parts
- Gratitude: a warm greeting and genuine thanks for the offer.
- The ask: one clear, specific number. A specific ask gets a specific answer.
- The evidence: market data for the role plus the concrete value you bring.
- The close: a positive line that invites continued discussion.
Sequenced simply: gratitude, value, data, number, then a friendly sign-off.
Copy-ready template
Subject
[Role] offer - a quick note on compensation
Body
Hi [Name],
Thank you so much for the offer to join [Company] as [Role]. I'm genuinely excited about the team and what you're building.
After researching market rates for this role and considering the [specific skills / experience / results] I bring, I'd like to propose a base salary of [exact number]. [One sentence of evidence - a comparable market figure, or a concrete result you have delivered.]
I'm confident we can find a number that works well for both of us, and I'm glad to discuss whenever is convenient. Thanks again for the opportunity.
Best,
[Your name]
Keep it short
Three brief paragraphs or fewer. A concise email keeps your number front and center. Longer messages bury the ask and dilute your tone, and the recruiter is skimming anyway.
Language to avoid
Skip apologetic openers like "I'm sorry to ask" - they undercut the request before you make it. Skip ultimatums like "I need X or I'm walking" unless you truly mean it, since they can end the conversation. And leave personal finances out; anchor everything on professional value and market rate.
Why put it in writing
Email lets you choose an exact figure without the pressure of a live call, prevents you from anchoring too low in the moment, and leaves a clear paper trail. You can always follow up by phone once your number is on record.