How to Negotiate a Higher Salary: Scripts That Actually Work
Most people never negotiate. Those who do earn $5,000-15,000 more per year on the same job. Here are the exact words to use.
The average salary negotiation increases an offer by $5,000-7,500. Over a 10-year career, that compounds to $50,000-75,000 plus higher 401(k) matches, bonuses, and future raises that build on the higher base. Not negotiating is the most expensive 10-minute mistake you will ever make.
The Script
After receiving the offer: 'Thank you, I am excited about this role. I have done market research and based on my experience and the responsibilities of this position, I was expecting something closer to [X]. Is there flexibility in the base salary?' X should be 10-15% above the offer. If they cannot move on salary, ask about signing bonus, remote work days, extra PTO, professional development budget, or earlier review date.
The Rules
Never give your number first — let them anchor. Never accept immediately — always say you need 24-48 hours to review. Never lie about competing offers — but you can say you are interviewing elsewhere (which you should be). Never apologize for negotiating — employers expect it and respect it. The worst they can say is no, and offers are virtually never rescinded because you asked professionally.