Got a job offer? That’s great, now it’s time to talk numbers.
A simple, polite email can help you confidently discuss salary, benefits, or your full compensation package.
Below are 8 email templates for common negotiation scenarios, like responding to a low offer or asking for more based on your experience.
Are you still finalizing your decision? Check out our job offer acceptance email guide first, then come back to negotiate the details.
Quick Answer: What to Include in a Salary Negotiation Email
- A professional greeting: Address the hiring manager by name.
- Gratitude for the job offer: Show appreciation for the opportunity.
- A clear statement of your salary request: Specify your desired salary, salary range, or proposed adjustment.
- Justification based on skills or market value: Highlight relevant skills, market research, or other offers.
- A collaborative tone: Emphasize your interest in finding a mutually beneficial agreement.
- Next steps or availability: Invite further discussion or a follow-up call.
8 Salary Negotiation Email Examples
1. Negotiating Salary After Receiving the Offer
This is one of the most common salary negotiation scenarios.
You’ve received the job offer, and you’re excited, but you believe your experience or market research supports a higher base salary.
Subject: Re: Job Offer – [Your Name]
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for the offer for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I’m excited about the opportunity and grateful for your confidence in me.
After reviewing the compensation package, I’d like to discuss the proposed salary. Based on my [X years of experience/market research/relevant skills], I was hoping we could explore a salary in the range of [$X–$Y], which I believe better reflects the market average and the value I’ll bring to the role.
I’d love to find a mutually beneficial agreement and am happy to discuss this further at your convenience.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
Want to know if they read your email or are actively reviewing it? MailTracker can help you stay informed throughout the negotiation process.
2. Asking for a Higher Salary Range During the Interview Process
If salary expectations come up during the interview process (before a formal offer) this email helps you set the tone early without sounding demanding.
Subject: Salary Expectations – [Your Name]
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I’ve enjoyed learning more about the team and the position.
As we continue the interview process, I wanted to share that my desired salary range is [$X–$Y], based on my experience, skill set, and research into market average salaries for similar roles in this geographical location.
I’m confident we can align on a compensation package that reflects the value I can bring to the team. I’m excited about the potential to contribute to [Company Name]’s success.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
3. Responding to a Salary Offer Below Expectations
When you receive an offer that’s lower than expected, use this negotiation email to respond professionally while advocating for your value.
Subject: Re: Job Offer Discussion – [Your Name]
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you for extending the offer for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity and appreciate the time your team has invested in the hiring process.
After reviewing the initial offer, I was hoping we could revisit the proposed salary. Based on my [experience level / specific skills/knowledge of similar roles in the market], I was expecting something closer to [$X].
I’d love to find a solution that feels fair and reflects the impact I can bring to the team. Please let me know if there’s room to adjust the compensation.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
If your counteroffer email gets opened multiple times without a reply, it may mean internal discussions are happening. With MailTracker, you can get insight without second-guessing your next move. Start tracking today for free!
4. Negotiating Salary and Benefits Together
If the base salary is close to your expectations but you'd like to explore additional compensation—like bonuses, stock options, or benefits—this email helps you address the full offer.
Subject: Offer Package Discussion – [Your Name]
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for the offer for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I’m very enthusiastic about the position and the team, and I’m eager to contribute to the company’s success.
Before moving forward, I’d like to discuss a few elements of the compensation package, including the base salary and additional benefits like [bonus structure / stock options / paid time off].
I believe that with a few adjustments, we can reach a compensation package that works well for both sides. I’d be happy to continue the conversation at your convenience.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
5. Salary Negotiation When You Have Another Offer
If you’re deciding between two opportunities, this negotiation email helps you stay professional while leveraging your position for a better salary or benefits.
Subject: Re: Offer Discussion – [Your Name]
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I want to thank you again for the offer for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I’m genuinely excited about the position and the potential to contribute to the team.
I wanted to be transparent and share that I’ve received another offer with a higher base salary and a slightly more flexible benefits package. However, [Company Name] remains my top choice based on the role and team culture.
If there’s any room to revisit the proposed salary or overall compensation package, I’d love to continue the conversation. I’m confident we can find a solution that’s mutually beneficial.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
6. Negotiating Salary After a Verbal Offer
If the offer was made informally (like over a call) this email helps you align on compensation details before signing anything.
Subject: Follow-Up on Verbal Offer – [Your Name]
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
It was great speaking with you earlier, and I’m excited about the opportunity to join [Company Name] as a [Job Title].
As we move toward finalizing the offer, I wanted to discuss the proposed salary. Based on my background, skills, and market research for similar roles, I was hoping we could agree on a base salary closer to [$X].
I’m confident we can find a fair agreement and I’m looking forward to working together. Please let me know if we can set up a time to continue the conversation.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
7. Salary Negotiation for Remote or Hybrid Roles
When working location affects the salary offer, this email helps you raise the topic professionally and clearly.
Subject: Offer Follow-Up – Remote Option & Compensation
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for the offer for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I'm excited about the position and the flexibility offered through the remote/hybrid setup.
I did want to revisit the proposed salary, particularly in relation to my geographical location and the responsibilities outlined in the role.
Based on market research and the value I believe I can bring to the team, I’d like to discuss an adjustment to better align with industry standards for this setup.
I'm confident we can reach a fair agreement and I'm open to finding a solution that supports both sides.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
8. Following Up on a Salary Negotiation Email
If you've made your salary request and it's been a few days with no response, this follow-up email keeps things polite while showing you're still interested.
Subject: Following Up – Offer & Compensation Discussion
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you're doing well. I wanted to follow up on my previous message regarding the offer for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. I'm still very enthusiastic about the opportunity and look forward to finalizing the next steps.
I’d appreciate any updates you can share regarding the compensation discussion, and I’m happy to provide any additional info if needed.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
If your follow-up email hasn’t been opened after a few days, MailTracker can send you a reminder when it’s time to try again, so your message doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
9. Salary Negotiation Email for a Promotion or Raise
If you're asking for a raise based on performance, a recent promotion, or new responsibilities, this internal salary negotiation email keeps it respectful and data-driven.
Subject: Request for Compensation Review – [Your Name]
Hi [Manager’s Name],
I appreciate the opportunity to grow within [Company Name] and take on additional responsibilities in my current role. Over the past [X months/years], I’ve worked to [briefly list major achievements or contributions], which I believe have significantly impacted the team’s success.
Based on my contributions, market value for similar roles, and the evolving scope of my position, I’d like to request a salary adjustment to better reflect my current responsibilities and performance.
I’d be happy to set up a time to discuss this further and explore a compensation update that aligns with both my growth and the company’s goals.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Details]
Make Sure Your Salary Negotiation Email Gets Seen
You’ve put thought into your email, backed it with research, and used the right tone, but what if it never gets opened?
With MailTracker, you can:
- See exactly when (and how often) your email is opened
- Get real-time alerts if your message is ignored or unopened after days
- Time your follow-ups with confidence
- Stay one step ahead during salary negotiations
Add MailTracker to Chrome. It’s free and start tracking your emails in seconds.
FAQs About Salary Negotiation Emails
Can I negotiate salary over email instead of having a live conversation?
Yes, absolutely. A well-written email allows you to present your case clearly and professionally, especially when you're early in the job search or want to avoid pressure. You can always follow up with a salary negotiation conversation later.
What should I include in a salary negotiation email?
Mention the job title, express gratitude for the offer, and clearly state your requested salary or counteroffer. Support your ask with online resources, market research, and highlight your unique skills, career level, or education level.
What if the employer offers benefits but not a salary increase?
You can respond by thanking them for the offer and asking if there's room to revisit starting salaries, signing bonuses, or future raises. A respectful reply keeps the salary negotiation conversation open.
How do I know if I have the most leverage to ask for more money?
You’re in the best position to ask for more money when you’ve demonstrated your value, researched average salaries, or received another offer. If you're well informed, you're more likely to feel comfortable accepting (or negotiating) a fair deal.
