Salary negotiation is a delicate subject, but it’s important to ensure you secure the right salary for your skills and level of experience. Here are our top tips for salary negotiation and free salary negotiation email templates to help you get the messaging right.
Tips for salary negotiation by email
Whether you’re planning to negotiate salary by email or write a salary increase letter, make sure to:
- Be polite but straightforward
- Be upfront about your expectations
- Back up your expectations with relevant average salary data and examples
- Be open to further negotiations, but know your limits
Salary negotiation email for a new job
If a hiring manager requests your salary expectations, find out the average salary range for your job/sector so that you know what’s reasonable, and support your expectations by outlining your relevant skills and experience.
Dear (Name),
I am thrilled to be offered the [Position] role at [Company].
As requested, my expected base salary is ($_______). This is based on the average annual salary range of ($_______ to $_______) for this job, as well as [2–3 qualifications/skills or summary of major past achievements]. This is negotiable depending on factors such as opportunities for career progression and training programs.
Thank you again for your offer. I look forward to speaking with you further soon.
Regards,
(Name)
Salary negotiation email using average salary data
It’s not uncommon for employers to offer a salary that is below market average due to budget constraints or simply not being aware of salary benchmarks for your role. If this is the case, respond by email mentioning average salaries for the position and reiterating your skill set:
Dear (Name),
I’m very excited about the prospect of joining your team at [Company Name] as [a/an/the] [Position Title].
With my [2–3 qualifications/skills or summary of major past achievements], I am confident that I will achieve great results for [Company Name]. However, I would like to discuss base salary before I sign the offer.
According to my research, the average salary for comparable positions in the [work location] area is in the [average salary] range. I would like to propose moving the offer closer to [proposed salary] in line with my skills and the demands of this position.
Thank you again for your offer. I look forward to speaking with you again soon.
Regards,
(Name)
Salary negotiation email after you receive a higher offer from another company
Tossing up between two job offers is tricky, especially if you’re excited about one but the other pays more. If you’re in this position, write an email concisely explaining your position:
Dear (Name),
I am very excited to be offered the position of [Position Title] at [Company].
However, before accepting your offer, I’d like to discuss the base salary for this position. Although [Company] is my first choice, I’ve received another job offer with a higher base salary of ($______).
I’m thrilled about the prospect of joining your team and would happily accept your offer if you could match this base salary. I understand that this figure may be above your planned budget, but I’m flexible and willing to find a solution that works for both of us.
Thank you again for your offer. I look forward to speaking with you again soon.
Regards,
(Name)
Salary negotiation email for a promotion or internal transfer
If you are up for a promotion or internal transfer, negotiating your salary can be challenging. Use this email template to discuss the salary for your new role within the company:
Dear (Name),
I am grateful for the opportunity to take on the new role of [Position Title] within [Company]. I am excited to contribute further to the team's success and take on new responsibilities.
Before finalising the details, I would like to discuss the salary for this new position. Based on my research, the average salary range for a similar role in our industry is between ($_______ to $). Considering my experience with the company and the skills I bring to the table, I believe a base salary of ($) would be appropriate.
I look forward to discussing this further and finding a mutually agreeable solution. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Regards,
(Name)
Salary negotiation email after a performance review
After a positive performance review, you may want to discuss a salary increase. Use this email template to express your gratitude and initiate a conversation about a possible raise:
Dear (Name),
Thank you for the recent performance review and your positive feedback on my work. I am glad to know that my contributions to the team and the company are recognized and valued.
As we discussed my accomplishments and future goals, I would like to take this opportunity to discuss the possibility of a salary increase. I have conducted some research on industry benchmarks, and the average salary for someone with my experience and skills in similar roles is ($). I believe that a salary adjustment to ($) would better reflect my current value to the company.
I appreciate your consideration of this request and would be happy to discuss this further at your convenience.
Regards,
(Name)
Knowledge is power when it comes to negotiating the salary you want. Get the latest outlook into workforce developments, salaries and hiring insights in Australia in our Talent Trends 21 report.
Salary Negotiation - FAQs
When is the best time to negotiate salary?
The best time to negotiate salary is typically after receiving a job offer but before accepting it. This is when you have the most leverage, as the employer has already shown interest in hiring you. While you may be tempted to use a salary negotiation email, having a face-to-face conversation or a phone call can be more effective in conveying your enthusiasm and commitment. If you"re unsure about how to negotiate a higher salary after a job offer, consider researching how to negotiate salary offer via email sample templates for guidance.
How can I research the market value for my role?
Researching the market value for your role is crucial in negotiating salary job offer situations. To do this, you can use online resources Michael Page’s Salary Guide or Salary Comparison Tool to gather information on industry benchmarks and average salaries for similar roles in your area.
Additionally, you can consult industry-specific salary surveys, reports, and professional networks to gain a better understanding of the market value. This research will help you when it"s time to negotiate salary after job offer, ensuring you're well-informed and confident in your request.
What other benefits or perks can I negotiate besides salary?
When negotiating a job offer, remember that there are other benefits and perks you can discuss besides salary. These may include flexible working hours, remote work options, additional vacation days, professional development opportunities, stock options, or a signing bonus. When crafting your how to negotiate salary email, consider mentioning your interest in exploring these additional benefits to create a more comprehensive compensation package.
How can I prepare for a face-to-face salary negotiation meeting?
Preparing for a face-to-face salary negotiation meeting is essential for success. Start by researching the market value for your role and gather relevant data to support your salary request. Review how to negotiate salary email templates or resources on negotiating salary job offer situations to familiarise yourself with effective communication strategies. Additionally, practise your negotiation skills and rehearse your key talking points, focusing on your accomplishments and how they add value to the company. Remember to remain polite, professional, and confident throughout the negotiation, emphasising your enthusiasm for the role and your willingness to find a mutually beneficial agreement.
Are you earning what you're worth? Gain valuable salary insights with our latestSalary Guide and confidently plan your next career move.
Compare my salary
the Michael Page team
14/01/2024
- changing jobs
- finance
- seriously useful
- Useful Templates
