Writing a salary negotiation email from scratch is hard. That is why we created five proven templates you can adapt to your situation. Each template follows the same core structure — gratitude, data-backed ask, flexibility, clear call to action — but tailors the language to different scenarios. Download PDF — Free

Template 1: The Standard Professional Counter

Best for corporate roles where you have a cordial relationship with the recruiter.

Subject: Offer Discussion — [Role] — [Your Name]

Dear [Recruiter Name],

Thank you for extending the offer to join [Company] as [Role]. I am very excited about the opportunity and the team's vision.

Based on my market research, the typical range for this position in [Location] is $[Low]–$[High]. Given my experience in [Skill/Area] and the value I can bring, I would like to request a base salary of $[Target].

I remain flexible on the start date and am happy to discuss other aspects of the offer.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Template 2: The Data-Driven Counter (Best for Tech)

Use this when you have specific market data from Levels.fyi, Glassdoor, or Blind.

Subject: [Role] Offer — [Your Name]

Hi [Recruiter Name],

Thank you for the offer. I am excited about the engineering challenges at [Company].

According to data from [Source], the median total compensation for a [Level] [Role] in [Location] is $[Amount]. My counter of $[Target] base with $[Equity] in equity aligns with this data and reflects my experience in [Specific Skill].

I would love to make this work and am open to discussing the full package.

Best,
[Your Name]

Template 3: The Equity-Focused Counter (Startups)

Startups often have limited cash but can be flexible with equity.

Subject: [Role] Offer — Comp Discussion

Hi [Name],

Thank you for the offer to join [Startup] as [Role]. I believe in the mission and am excited to contribute.

I understand that early-stage companies have cash constraints. Would you be open to increasing the equity grant by [X]% in lieu of a higher base? I am willing to tie my upside to the company's success.

Happy to hop on a call to discuss.

Thanks,
[Your Name]

Template 4: The Non-Monetary Ask

When base salary is firm, negotiate other terms.

Subject: Offer — Quick Question

Hi [Name],

Thank you for the offer. I am very keen to join [Company] and believe I can make an immediate impact.

I understand the base salary is firm at this level. Would you be open to adding a $[Amount] signing bonus or accelerating the first performance review to [Month] for a potential adjustment?

I appreciate your flexibility.

Best,
[Your Name]

Template 5: The Flexible Timeline Counter

Buy yourself time while signaling interest.

Subject: Offer Timeline — [Role]

Dear [Name],

Thank you for the offer. I am genuinely excited about the role and the team.

Could we extend the decision deadline to [Date]? I want to give this the consideration it deserves and also have one final conversation scheduled with another company.

I will be in touch well before the new deadline.

Thanks,
[Your Name]

When to Send Your Counter Offer

Timing matters. Send your counter within 24–48 hours of receiving the written offer. Responding too quickly (same day) can seem like you did not think it through. Waiting more than 3–4 days signals disinterest or that you are using the offer as leverage elsewhere. The sweet spot is one full business day — long enough to appear thoughtful, short enough to keep momentum.