Salary Negotiation Scripts: Exactly What to Say at Every Stage

Salary Negotiation Scripts: Exactly What to Say at Every Stage

Many people accept the first offer because negotiating feels awkward or risky. In most cases, a polite, well-prepared request is a normal part of hiring, and employers often expect it.

The hardest part is knowing what to say. Below are scripts you can adapt for each stage, from the first recruiter call to the final yes.

Step 1: Know your number before anyone asks

Before you talk about money, research the market rate for the role, your level and your location. Useful sources include salary ranges in job posts, salary surveys from recruitment agencies, public pay data sites and conversations with people in similar roles.

Then decide three numbers:

• Your target: the salary you'd be happy with.
• Your ask: a bit above your target, leaving room to negotiate.
• Your walk-away point: the lowest offer you'd accept.

Script 1: When the recruiter asks about salary expectations

If you'd rather not name a number first:

"I'd like to learn more about the role and responsibilities first. Could you share the budgeted range for this position?"

If they insist, give a researched range with your target near the bottom:

"Based on my research and experience, I'm looking for something in the range of 65,000 to 72,000 euros, depending on the full package."

In some countries and US states, employers can't ask about your current or past salary. Either way, you don't need to share it. Focus on what the role is worth.

Script 2: When you receive the offer

Don't accept or reject on the spot. Thank them and ask for time:

"Thank you, I'm really excited about this offer. Could you send the details in writing? I'd like to review everything and get back to you by Thursday."

Script 3: Your counteroffer

Keep it positive, specific and short. By email or phone:

"Thank you again for the offer. I'm excited about the role and the team. Based on the scope of the position and market rates for similar roles, I was hoping for a base salary of 72,000 euros. If you can meet that, I'm ready to accept."

Use one clear number, not a range. Give a brief reason based on the role or market, not personal expenses.

Script 4: When they say the budget is fixed

Base salary isn't the only thing you can negotiate:

"I understand the base salary is fixed. Would there be flexibility on other parts of the package, like a signing bonus, an extra week of vacation, a training budget or an earlier salary review?"

What you can negotiate besides base salary

• Signing bonus: Example request: One-time payment to bridge the gap.
• Salary review: Example request: Review after 6 months instead of 12.
• Vacation: Example request: Extra days of paid leave.
• Remote work: Example request: More home-office days.
• Learning budget: Example request: Courses, conferences or certifications.
• Start date: Example request: Time off before you begin.
• Job title: Example request: A title that matches your level.

Script 5: When you have another offer

Only use this if the other offer is real:

"I want to be transparent. I've received another offer with a higher base salary, and I need to respond by Friday. This role is my first choice. Is there any flexibility to get closer to 72,000 euros?"

Script 6: Accepting the final offer

"Thank you for working with me on this. I'm happy to accept the offer of 70,000 euros with a salary review after six months. Could you send the updated contract?"

Always get the final terms in writing before you resign from your current job.

Common negotiation mistakes

• Accepting immediately out of relief.
• Apologising for asking. Stay friendly and matter-of-fact.
• Giving a wide range, which invites the lowest number.
• Using personal reasons like rent or debt instead of market value.
• Negotiating forever. One or two rounds is normal. More can hurt goodwill.

Keep track of offers and deadlines

When you're comparing offers, details matter: base pay, benefits, deadlines and who you spoke to. Keep them with each application in the JobStacky Job Application Tracker, so you can respond on time and compare clearly.

Frequently asked questions

Can negotiating cause an offer to be withdrawn?

It's rare when you negotiate politely and reasonably. Keep your tone positive and your request specific.

How much more should I ask for?

It depends on your research. Many people ask for around 5% to 10% above the offer when the market supports it.

Should I negotiate by email or phone?

Either works. Email gives you time to choose your words. A call can feel more personal. Many people combine both.

Can I negotiate an internal promotion or raise?

Yes. Use the same approach: research, a clear number and evidence of your results.

Track every offer in one place

Compare offers, deadlines and notes side by side in the JobStacky Job Application Tracker.