When you receive a job offer, the salary may not align with your expectations. Negotiating for better compensation is a standard part of accepting a new role, and a well-crafted counter offer email is a professional way to articulate your value. This guide provides a clear path to composing an effective email to help you secure a salary that reflects your worth.
Preparing to Write Your Counter Offer
Before drafting your response, you must complete some preparatory work. The foundation of a successful salary negotiation is data. Determine the market value for the role, factoring in your geographic location and level of experience. Online resources like Glassdoor and Payscale provide salary calculators and benchmarks to help you find a realistic range.
This research allows you to build a case grounded in objective facts rather than personal feelings. Calculate a specific, reasonable figure supported by your findings, as this data-backed number will be the core of your justification. This transforms your request from a simple ask into a well-reasoned business proposition.
Elements of a Strong Counter Offer Email
A strong counter offer email has several distinct parts that work together. The structure is designed to be respectful of the employer’s initial offer while confidently asserting your value.
A Clear and Professional Subject Line
Your subject line needs to be direct and easily identifiable, as it’s the first thing the hiring manager sees. Vague titles can get lost in a busy inbox. A simple, professional subject line like “Following up on Job Offer” or “Question regarding employment offer” is effective and ensures your email is opened promptly.
An Expression of Gratitude and Enthusiasm
Begin the body of your email on a positive note. Thank the hiring manager for the offer and reiterate your excitement about the position and the company. This approach reinforces your interest and establishes a collaborative tone for the negotiation. It shows your counter offer comes from a place of enthusiasm, not dissatisfaction.
A Justification for Your Request
Here, you will connect your skills, experience, and market research to justify a higher salary. Briefly highlight a few qualifications or accomplishments that make you a strong candidate. Frame your request around the value you will bring, demonstrating that your desired salary reflects your capabilities and potential contributions.
The Specific Counter Offer Amount
After laying the groundwork, state your desired salary clearly and confidently. Present a specific number rather than a wide range. For instance, “Based on my research and experience, I believe a salary of [your desired salary] would be more in line with my qualifications.” This phrasing is assertive without being demanding.
A Collaborative and Flexible Closing
Conclude your email by signaling your willingness to find a solution. End with a collaborative statement, such as “I am open to discussing this further” or “I am confident we can find a mutually agreeable outcome.” This leaves the door open for conversation and shows you view the negotiation as a partnership.
Counter Offer Email Template and Example
Below is a template that can be adapted to your situation, followed by an example to illustrate how it works in practice.
Template:
Subject: Following up on your offer
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the [Job Title] position. I am very excited about the opportunity to join the team at [Company Name] and contribute to [mention a specific project or company goal].
After careful consideration of your offer and based on my research into the average salary for this role in [Your City/Region], I would like to propose a starting salary of `[Your Desired Salary]`. I believe this figure reflects my [mention 1-2 key skills or years of experience] and aligns with the value I am confident I can bring to the team.
I am very enthusiastic about this role and am flexible and open to discussing this further. I am confident that we can reach a compensation package that is agreeable to both of us.
Thank you again for this wonderful opportunity. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example:
Subject: Following up on your offer
Dear Ms. Rodriguez,
Thank you so much for offering me the Senior Marketing Analyst position. I am very excited about the opportunity to join the team at Innovate Corp and contribute to the upcoming launch of your new mobile application.
After careful consideration of your offer and based on my research into the average salary for this role in the Bay Area, I would like to propose a starting salary of $92,000. I believe this figure reflects my seven years of experience in data analytics and my proven success in leading campaigns that resulted in significant user growth.
I am very enthusiastic about this role and am flexible and open to discussing this further. I am confident that we can reach a compensation package that is agreeable to both of us.
Thank you again for this wonderful opportunity. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
John Smith
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Certain missteps can undermine your position and create an adversarial dynamic. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Issuing an ultimatum: Never frame your counter offer as a take-it-or-leave-it demand. This can seem aggressive and may cause the employer to withdraw the offer.
- Making it personal: Avoid mentioning personal financial needs, such as rent or student loans. The negotiation should be based on your professional value and market data, not private expenses.
- Apologizing for negotiating: Negotiating is a standard business practice. Being overly apologetic can signal a lack of confidence in the value you are presenting.
- Being vague about your request: Stating that you want “a higher salary” without providing a specific number makes it difficult for the hiring manager to respond effectively.
What to Expect After You Send the Email
After sending the email, be patient. Companies have internal processes to review and approve a revised offer, which can take several days. Avoid sending multiple follow-up emails, as this can appear impatient. Give the hiring manager a few business days to a week to respond before a polite check-in.
Be prepared for a few potential outcomes. The company may accept your counter offer, hold firm on their original offer, or propose a number in the middle. The discussion may also shift to a phone call, as some managers prefer to negotiate in real-time. While rare, an offer can be rescinded if a candidate is unprofessional or makes unreasonable demands.