Free guide
How to negotiate a job offer
Updated November 7, 2026. Practical steps you can use the same day you get an offer.
You got the offer. The next 48 hours matter more than most people think: a single, polite counter with a specific number can raise your base for years, because future raises are often a percentage of that base. Here is a clear sequence that stays honest and low-drama.
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1. Pause before you say yes
Thank them and ask for the offer in writing (base, bonus, equity, start date, PTO, remote/hybrid, and any sign-on). Say you are excited and will reply by a specific date, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Do not negotiate mid-celebration on the first call unless they press for an immediate answer.
2. Pick one number you can defend
Check pay data for your exact title, level, and city (Levels.fyi, Radford/CompAnalyst summaries your network shares, job posts, and peers you trust). A common, defensible range is about 10% to 20% above the base offer when the offer sits at or below market. In Resume Genius's hiring-manager survey work (2025 to 2026), managers often reported comfort with counters in roughly the 10% to 25% band. Use the low end if the offer is already strong; use a higher ask only when your research clearly supports it.
Need a starting figure? Use the free salary counteroffer calculator, then adjust with your research. Prefer a slightly precise number (for example $93,500) over a round guess.
3. Open with appreciation, then one ask
Keep the first message short. One structure that works:
- Thank them and restate excitement about the role.
- Name one or two reasons tied to your results or market data.
- State a single base number (or a small package ask if base cannot move).
- Stop. Let them respond.
Example line: “Thank you — I'm excited about this role. Based on my research and what I bring, I'm asking for a base of $X. If we can get there, I'm ready to accept.”
4. Handle the three most common replies
- “That's above our range.” Ask what the top of the approved range is, then ask about sign-on, an earlier review, extra PTO, or remote days if base is capped.
- “Let me check with the team.” Confirm when you'll hear back, stay warm, and avoid stacking new asks while they check.
- Silence or a long pause. Stay quiet after your number. Do not fill the silence by lowering your ask.
The hard part is rarely the math. It is the next 60 seconds of the conversation. The Offer Kit gives word-for-word replies for those moments, plus Call Mode, a full-screen companion that shows your next line during the call. One-time $29, 14-day refund.
5. Get the final number in writing
When they agree, ask for an updated offer letter or email confirming base, bonus, start date, and any extras. Do not resign your current job until you have that confirmation. Be honest throughout — never invent a competing offer.
Related free tools
- Salary counteroffer calculator
- Total compensation calculator
- Take-home pay calculator
- How to ask for a raise
Should I negotiate every job offer?
Usually yes, once, politely, with a specific number and a reason. If the offer is already at the top of the posted range and you have no competing data, a modest ask or a focus on sign-on, PTO, or start date can still help. Never invent a competing offer.
Will the company rescind the offer if I negotiate?
It is uncommon when you stay appreciative, ask once, and give a clear reason. At-will employment means it is possible. Keep the tone collaborative and be ready to accept a fair middle ground.
Email or phone?
Either works. Email gives you a paper trail and time to choose words. Phone (or video) is better when the recruiter prefers a live conversation. Use Call Mode if you want your next line on screen during the call.
Is this legal or career advice?
No. It is practical communication guidance. Check pay data for your role, level, and city, and follow your own judgment.
Guidance only, not legal, financial, or tax advice. Results vary. This is a communication aid, not a guarantee of any outcome.