Negotiating your salary without burning the offer
Negotiating is expected, not rude. A simple, low-risk script to get paid fairly without souring the relationship.
By Priya Nair · 2026-03-26
Most offers have room, and most employers expect a counter. Handled well, negotiating signals confidence — not greed.
The low-risk approach
- Say thank you first — enthusiasm before the ask.
- Anchor on value — tie the number to what you bring.
- Ask once, clearly — 'Is there flexibility to get to $X?'
Beyond base pay
If salary is fixed, negotiate the rest: signing bonus, extra PTO, remote days, a review in six months, or a title that helps your next move.
A polite, specific ask almost never costs you the offer. Not asking almost always costs you money.