Negotiating a salary can feel daunting, especially when it's happening over email. But with the right approach and a well-crafted email, you can significantly increase your earning potential. This guide provides fail-proof methods and email samples to help you navigate this crucial step in the job offer process.
Before You Even Open Your Email Client: Preparation is Key
Before you fire off that email, thorough preparation is crucial. This isn't just about knowing your desired salary; it's about understanding the entire landscape:
1. Research, Research, Research:
- Industry Standards: Use sites like Glassdoor, Salary.com, Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary to research the average salary for similar roles in your location and with your experience level. This provides a strong foundation for your negotiation.
- Company Research: Investigate the company's financial health and recent performance. A thriving company might be more willing to negotiate.
- Your Own Value: List your skills, experience, and accomplishments that make you a valuable asset. Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 15%").
2. Determine Your Ideal Salary Range:
Based on your research, establish a target salary, a "walk-away" point (the lowest you'll accept), and a comfortable negotiation range in between. Having a range allows flexibility.
3. Craft Your Talking Points:
Prepare concise, impactful statements highlighting your value proposition and justifying your desired salary. Focus on the return on investment (ROI) you'll provide the company.
Crafting the Perfect Salary Negotiation Email
Now, let's build that email. Remember, clarity and professionalism are paramount.
1. Express Gratitude & Enthusiasm:
Start by expressing your appreciation for the offer. Show genuine excitement about the opportunity. This sets a positive tone.
Example:
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I am very excited about this opportunity and truly appreciate you considering me.
2. Politely State Your Counter-Offer:
Clearly and confidently state your desired salary range. Don't be afraid to politely push back if the initial offer is significantly lower than your research indicates.
Example:
Based on my research and experience, and considering the responsibilities outlined in the job description, I was hoping for a salary in the range of $[Lower Bound] to $[Upper Bound] annually.
3. Highlight Your Value & Justify Your Request:
This is where your preparation shines. Use this section to reinforce your value proposition. Refer back to your accomplishments and how they align with the company's needs.
Example:
My experience in [relevant skill 1] and [relevant skill 2], as demonstrated by [quantifiable achievement 1] and [quantifiable achievement 2], allows me to significantly contribute to [Company Goal]. I am confident I can quickly become a valuable asset to your team.
4. Express Continued Interest & Flexibility (within reason):
Reiterate your enthusiasm and show a willingness to negotiate, but don't undervalue yourself.
Example:
I am very interested in joining [Company Name], and I am confident we can reach an agreement that works for both of us. I am open to discussing this further.
5. End with a Professional Closing:
Thank the hiring manager again for their time and consideration. Propose a timeframe for a response.
Example:
Thank you again for this opportunity. I look forward to hearing from you by [Date].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Handling Difficult Situations
Sometimes, negotiations aren't straightforward. Here's how to handle potential challenges:
- If they decline your counter-offer: Politely inquire about the reasons behind their decision. Are there performance-based incentives you can discuss? Are there other benefits that could make up for a lower base salary?
- If they offer a lower amount than your walk-away point: You need to decide if the role and the company are worth accepting at a lower than ideal salary. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making your decision.
Negotiating a salary is a skill, and like any skill, it improves with practice. By following these steps and practicing your approach, you can confidently navigate salary negotiations and secure a compensation package that reflects your worth. Remember, you deserve to be fairly compensated for your skills and experience.
