Salary Offer Negotiation Template

Re: Job Offer — [Job Title] at [Company Name] — Discussion

Hi [Hiring Manager Name],

Thank you so much for the offer to join [Company] as [Job Title]. I'm genuinely excited about the opportunity and the team. After reviewing the offer details, I'd love to discuss a few points to make sure we find the right fit for both sides.

Before getting into specifics, I want to highlight what excites me:

• [Aspect of the role — e.g., Building and leading the product team]
• [Company value/mission alignment — e.g., The focus on sustainable energy solutions]
• [Team or growth opportunity — e.g., Working with the engineering leadership team]

I'm confident this is the right role for me, and I want to make sure the compensation reflects the value I'll bring.

Base Salary: The offered base of $[Amount] is [below / at the lower end of] what I'd expect for this level and market. Based on my research ([X years of experience, specific expertise in Y, market benchmarks for Z]), I'd propose $[Your Number].

Bonus & Variable: I'd like to understand the bonus structure better. Could we discuss:
• Target bonus percentage and historical payout rates
• Performance metrics and evaluation criteria
• Signing bonus as part of the package

Equity: I'd appreciate clarity on:
• Grant size and vesting schedule
• Strike price (for options) or current valuation (for RSUs)
• Any acceleration clauses (change of control, termination)

Benefits & Perks: I'd also like to discuss:
• Health insurance coverage and premiums
• 401(k) match / retirement contributions
• PTO policy and flexibility
• Professional development budget

Regarding work location and schedule:
• I'm looking for [remote / hybrid with X days in office / fully remote]
• I'd like to discuss [flexible hours / specific schedule preferences]
• [Any relocation support needed — or not needed]

I'm eager to join [Company] and am confident we can find terms that reflect the mutual value of this opportunity. I'm flexible and open to creative structuring — what matters most to me is [your top priority, e.g., competitive base salary + growth potential].

Could we set up a brief call to discuss? I'm available [times].

Looking forward to working together.

[Your Name]