Understand how companies make compensation decisions
Employers often work within approved salary bands influenced by level, internal equity, geography, budget, experience, and market data. A recruiter may need approval from the hiring manager, compensation team, finance, or HR before changing an offer.
- Base salary may have less flexibility than sign-on bonus, equity, start date, or paid time off
- An offer near the top of a band can limit future increases without a level change
- Your strongest case connects relevant value and market evidence to a reasonable request
- The employer may accept, counter, explain a constraint, or leave the offer unchanged
Ask for time to review
Example: Thank you for the offer. I’m excited about the opportunity and appreciate the team’s confidence in me. I would like to review the complete package carefully. May I respond by Thursday afternoon?
Counter the base salary
Lead with enthusiasm, state the request clearly, and support it with role-relevant evidence. Avoid personal expenses as the main justification.
Example: I’m very interested in joining the team. Based on the role’s scope, my experience leading multi-region sales organizations, and current market information, would you be able to consider a base salary of $145,000? I’m confident I can contribute quickly and would welcome a conversation about the package.
Discuss the full package
If base salary is constrained, identify the elements that matter most to you rather than asking for everything at once.
Example: I understand the base-salary limit. Would there be flexibility on a sign-on bonus, additional paid time off, or an earlier compensation review tied to agreed performance goals?
Use a concise live talk track
Example: I’m excited about the role and believe the fit is strong. Before accepting, I’d like to discuss the compensation. Based on the scope and the experience I would bring, I was targeting a base closer to $145,000. What flexibility does the team have?
Follow up without pressure
Example: Thank you again for discussing the offer with me. I remain very interested in the position. I’m following up on the compensation request we discussed and would be glad to provide any additional information that would help the review.
Accept or decline professionally
- Accept only after confirming the final terms in writing
- Restate the title, compensation, start date, and any negotiated items
- If declining, thank the team and keep the explanation brief
- Do not bluff about another offer or make claims you cannot substantiate