Commencing a fresh job or advancing to a higher position often triggers a whirlwind of emotions. A mix of excitement and pride accompanies the journey, but so do anxiety and self-doubt. The entire process resembles a roller coaster ride with ups and downs. One significant factor contributing to this unease is the negotiation phase, particularly when discussing the compensation package.
Negotiating your job offer is not just important; it’s necessary. Don’t ignore this important step in the process.
Your negotiation skills can make or break your career trajectory. As a result, take a deep breath, put on your negotiation hat, and prepare to make the most of your job offer.
This article provides practical tools to navigate job offer negotiations confidently and effectively, including comprehensive guidelines on why and how to negotiate a job offer via email, a well-crafted negotiation email template sample, and additional templates for adapting to various scenarios.
Negotiating Your Job Offer: Why Should You Do It?
- Engage your potential employer from the start. Negotiating your offer from the get-go shows you mean business and have a vested interest in the position. You want to establish a mutually beneficial relationship with your new employer.
- An opportunity to discuss the specifics of the job. Negotiating salary is not the only game in play. Flexible hours, remote work options, progression prospects, and training opportunities are just a few other items that can be open for discussion.
- The employer usually expects some negotiation. Companies respect professionals who know their worth and how to assert it professionally. Employers almost always leave room for it in their offers, so don’t be timid about this process. After all, if you don’t ask – you won’t receive.
Email Negotiation Benefits
- The convenience of email. The email can be drafted, sent, and replied to at your convenience- no concern for synchronizing schedules or calming nerves.
- Time to refine your arguments. Before sending an email, you can take some time to carefully choose your words, align your points, and even solicit advice. This will provide you with ample opportunity to articulate your points effectively.
- You are documenting negotiations in writing. Email-based negotiations can be valuable records of your inquiries and the employer’s replies. This becomes especially advantageous during the contract finalization process.
The benefit of dealing with a job offer via email is that it is a relaxed, well-documented process compared to face-to-face or over the phone. Nerves are removed from the equation!
Email Recipient of Job Offer Negotiation
Your first consideration should be who should receive your email. You should email the person who extended the job offer to you. Was it from:
- Hiring Manager – Example, John Smith – address email as: “Dear John.”
- Human Resources Representative – Example, Susan Jones – address email as: “Dear Susan.”
- Department Head – Example, Dale Miller – address email as: “Dear Dale.”
Negotiations should always be conducted positively and respectfully.
Subject Line for Job Offer Negotiation Email
The subject line is the first verbiage that captures the eye of the recipient. Make it grab their attention! Subject lines often determine how quickly your email is opened. So be direct. For instance:
- Newly received job offer
- The subject line could be “Regarding Job Offer – [Your Name].”
- To be more explicit about the email content, you might opt for: “Job Offer Negotiation – [Your Name].”
Including your name in your email makes it easy for the recipient to recognize who is sending it.
- In response to a job offer that has already been made
- The subject line could be “Further Discussion on [Job Title] Position.”
Remember that the subject line is the initial gateway to initiate a conversation about your job offer. It forms your first impression in this interaction, making it worthwhile to take a moment to compose it carefully.
How to Format Your Job Offer Negotiation Email
Professional Greeting
It is good manners to use the recipient’s full name or any title they may have, as in “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name.”. You can use their first name if you know the recipient well and have established a rapport with them.
Email Body
Emphasize clarity in your writing. Ensure that your text is easy to understand and straightforward. For instance, instead of using convoluted sentences, opt for clear expressions like, “I’m excited about the offer, but I was hoping for a base salary of XXK.” (Make sure you are aware of industry salary trends.)
Organize your paragraphs neatly and effectively, spreading your points to avoid creating a lengthy read. Doing so makes it easier for your readers to follow and comprehend your message.
Always keep a neutral tone because you do not want to sound confrontational.
Closing With a Professional Touch
Your closing should include your full name, followed by a simple expression like “Best Regards,” “Sincerely,” or similar.
An email that is thoughtfully laid out, meticulously structured, and composed with consideration speaks volumes about your professionalism. Moreover, it ensures your negotiation request is received in the intended manner.
Email Content for Job Offer Negotiations (step by step)
- Gratitude – “I am thrilled to receive the offer for the position of [Job Title], and I appreciate the opportunity to join your esteemed team at [Company Name].”
- State counteroffer – “However, after evaluating the role’s responsibilities and considering the current market rate, I would like to discuss the base salary.”
- Counteroffer reasons – “While the offer is certainly competitive, various sources indicate that a role with similar responsibilities in our industry typically comes with a base salary of [Your Expected Salary]. In addition to my relevant experience and skills, I am confident in my ability to deliver significant value to your team.”
- Conclusion – “I am hopeful for and open to discussing a mutually beneficial agreement.”
Remember to convey your value to the organization through a respectful email to succeed in your negotiation rather than being greedy or demanding.
Email Template for Job Offer Negotiation
Below is a salary negotiation template via email.
Subject: RE: Your Job Offer
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am truly grateful for the employment offer and enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the [Company Name] team.
However, I would like to discuss the base salary. After researching the average pay for this role in our industry, I’ve discovered that the typical salary range is [mention range]. Based on this, and considering my qualifications and experience, I would like to propose a salary adjustment to [mention the desired salary].
This revised figure reflects the value I can bring to the [Company Name] and the industry standard for the position.
Thank you for considering my proposal. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and look forward to discussing this further.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Below is a template for negotiating other benefits besides salary:
Subject: Discussing Offer Benefits
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to be a part of [Company name]. I am very excited about the offer and the opportunity to contribute to the team.
I would like to discuss a few aspects of the offer that can make my transition to [Company name] smoother. Specifically, these are related to [mention the specific benefits like professional development opportunities, remote work privileges, etc.].
These changes will allow me to commit fully to my role at [Company name] and deliver the highest possible value. I look forward to discussing this further and finalizing the offer details.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Keep in mind that the objective of these negotiations is to attain a resolution that is advantageous for both parties involved.
Wrapping Up
My final point is to remind you how important it is to own your worth throughout your career journey, including during job offer negotiations.
To gain a better understanding, when presented with a new job or promotion, it’s crucial not merely to accept what’s offered passively. Instead, embrace the opportunity to assertively showcase your talents and value, ensuring you receive the recognition you deserve.
Next Steps
Get expert advice from our career coaches to maximize your career potential. Let them help you express your value and negotiate a job offer that reflects your skills and experience.
Let us guide you in crafting the perfect email template for job offer negotiations, boosting your confidence and setting you up for success!