A good salary negotiation counter offer email thanks the employer, states the number you are asking for, and backs it with the scope of the role and your relevant experience. Keep it polite, specific and short. You are not rejecting the offer, you are continuing a conversation about terms both sides can accept.
Prepare before you write
An email without preparation sounds like a guess. Spend time on these points first.
- Research the market range for this role, city and level using several sources, and treat each as a rough guide.
- Know your current CTC breakup, including fixed pay, variable pay and benefits, so you compare like with like.
- Decide your target, a reasonable lower figure you would still accept, and your walk-away point.
- List three or four concrete pieces of evidence: projects you led, tools you use, certifications, or responsibilities the new role adds.
- Check what else could be negotiated, such as joining bonus, review cycle, notice period buy-out, remote days or learning budget.
Structure of the email
Use a clear order so the reader can answer quickly.
- Subject line: "Offer for [Role] - discussion on compensation".
- Opening: thank them and say you are excited about the role and team.
- The ask: state your expected annual CTC clearly, and mention whether it refers to fixed pay.
- The reasons: connect the number to the role's scope and your evidence, in two or three lines.
- Flexibility: say you are open to discussing the structure.
- Close: ask for a short call and mention your decision timeline politely.
A short sample
Dear [Name], thank you for the offer for the [Role] position. I am keen to join the team. After reviewing the responsibilities, which include [scope item] and [scope item], and my experience in [relevant evidence], I was hoping for a fixed annual CTC closer to [your target]. I am open to discussing how the package is structured. Could we speak this week? Thank you for your time. Regards, [Your Name].
Replace the placeholders with your real figures. Do not copy numbers from examples.
Do and don't
- Do: ask for one clear figure rather than a vague "more".
- Do: stay warm and keep the focus on the role's value.
- Do: compare fixed pay with fixed pay, not total CTC with in-hand pay.
- Don't: mention a competing offer unless it is real and confirmed in writing.
- Don't: use ultimatums, or apologise repeatedly.
- Don't: share the number you will "settle for" in the first email.
After you send it
Wait a reasonable time and follow up once. If the employer cannot move on pay, ask whether other terms can improve. If they come back with a revised offer, review it in writing before you answer. Accept only when the final terms are in an updated offer letter. Verify any benefit or tax-related details with the employer or a qualified professional.
Next step
Build a primary resume and a role-specific version in CVTara so your experience is clear before negotiations begin, and record each offer in the application tracker to compare them fairly.
You can also run an ATS match against a real job description, or read our related guide: Why Does Overtime Pay Look More Heavily Taxed?.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to counter the first salary offer?
Yes, a polite and well-reasoned counter is common and professional. Keep your tone appreciative and base the ask on role scope and evidence.
Should I mention my current salary in the email?
You are not obliged to lead with it. Focus on the role's scope and market range, and share your current CTC only where the process requires it.
What if the employer refuses to increase pay?
Ask whether other terms can improve, such as a review date, joining bonus or notice period flexibility. Then decide using your walk-away point.