STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

How to Negotiate Salary Over Email:
Step-by-Step Strategy

Negotiating over the phone is stressful and risky. Email gives you control, precision, and a paper trail. Here is how to master it.

Step 1: The 24-Hour Rule

Never negotiate immediately. When you receive an offer, express gratitude and ask for time to review it. Sending your counter-offer email 24 to 48 hours later serves three purposes:

  • It shows you are thoughtful and serious.
  • It removes the emotion from the conversation.
  • It makes the recruiter sweat (just a little bit).

Step 2: The Subject Line

Keep it professional and clear. Avoid aggressive titles like "Salary Negotiation" or "Counter Offer." Instead, frame it as a discussion.

Recommended Subject Lines:

  • "Discussion regarding offer from [Company Name]"
  • "Questions about the [Job Title] offer"
  • "Follow up on [Job Title] offer details"

Step 3: The "Sandwich" Method

Structure your email like a sandwich: Gratitude (Top Bun), The Ask (Meat), and Excitement (Bottom Bun).

1. The Gratitude (Top Bun)"I am thrilled about the offer and can't wait to join the team..."
2. The Ask (The Meat)"Based on market data/my experience, I was hoping to see the base salary closer to $X..."
3. The Excitement (Bottom Bun)"I am confident we can find a number that works. I'm ready to sign as soon as we resolve this."