Many candidates avoid negotiating a job offer entirely, worried it might come across as greedy or risk the offer altogether. In practice, most employers expect some negotiation, and a calm, well-reasoned request rarely damages a relationship before it's even started.
Before you say anything
- Research typical compensation for the role, location, and experience level using multiple sources.
- Decide on your priorities beyond salary — schedule flexibility, remote work, vacation time, or professional development budget may all be negotiable.
- Get the full offer in writing before responding, so you're negotiating against something concrete.
How to frame the conversation
The most effective negotiations tend to sound collaborative rather than adversarial: "I'm excited about this role. Based on my research and experience, I was hoping we could look at the base salary — is there flexibility there?" This framing signals genuine interest while still opening the door to discussion.
Silence is a tool
After making your request, resist the urge to immediately fill the silence with justifications or a lower counter-offer. Give the other person room to respond.
What tends to backfire
- Bluffing about a competing offer you don't actually have — this can unravel badly if asked for specifics.
- Negotiating over email when a short call would convey tone more clearly.
- Focusing only on salary when other benefits might matter just as much to your day-to-day life.
A reasonable employer expects candidates to advocate for themselves. Approaching the conversation with preparation and respect — rather than aggression — is usually enough to get a fair hearing.
About the author
Priya Nair
Career Contributor
6 pieces published
