Is it unprofessional to negotiate by email instead of by phone?

No — it's common and often preferred by recruiters, who need something in writing to take to whoever approves changes. Take the initial call to show enthusiasm, then put your counter in a short email.

How many things can I ask for at once?

Make one clear primary ask with a brief reason and say you'll accept if it's met. If base can't move, then ask about one alternative lever such as a signing bonus or an earlier review. Avoid a list of demands.

Should I mention a competing offer?

Only if it's real and you're prepared to take it. State the figure plainly, say why this role is your preference, and commit to accepting if they match. Never bluff — recruiters compare notes.

The salary negotiation email: scripts that actually work

August 4, 2026 · 4 min read

Most people accept the first number because the conversation feels confrontational, and the phone makes it worse — you are asked to respond in real time to a figure you have just heard. Email removes that pressure. It gives you time to check the offer against your research, to choose your words, and to be precise. It also gives the recruiter something they can forward to whoever approves the change, which is often the practical reason a counter succeeds. Below are scripts for the situations that come up most, ready to adapt.

The principles behind every script

Enthusiasm first. Every negotiation email opens by confirming you want the job. It frames the ask as "how do we make this work" rather than "here is my demand."
One clear ask. A specific number or change, with one or two sentences of reasoning tied to scope and market.
A path to yes. Tell them that with the change, you will accept. It ends the negotiation in the same message it opens.
Short. Five to eight sentences. Long emails feel like arguments.

Script 1: countering the base salary

Subject: [Role] offer — one question on compensation

Hi [Name], thank you for the offer — I'm genuinely excited about the team and the work we discussed. I've reviewed the details carefully. Based on the scope of the role, which includes [specific responsibility], and what I'm seeing for this level in [market], I was hoping we could bring the base to [X]. If we can get there, I'm ready to accept and confirm a start date this week. Thanks for considering it. Best, [You]

Script 2: when base can't move — ask for another lever

Hi [Name], thanks for checking on the base — I understand the band is fixed. I'd still like to make this work. Would it be possible to add a signing bonus of [X], or to schedule a compensation review at six months rather than twelve? Either would close the gap for me, and I'd be glad to accept on that basis. Best, [You]

Script 3: you have a competing offer

Only use this if it is true; recruiters talk, and a bluff that is called ends the conversation.

Hi [Name], I want to be transparent: I've received another offer with a base of [X]. Your role is my preference because of [specific reason], and I'd rather not make the decision on salary alone. If you're able to match or come close to that figure, I'll accept your offer and withdraw from the other process today. Best, [You]

Script 4: asking for the range before you give a number

Hi [Name], thanks for asking about compensation. To make sure we're aligned early, could you share the range budgeted for this role? I'm happy to confirm where I sit within it. Best, [You]

Script 5: accepting after a partial move

Hi [Name], thank you for going back on this — I appreciate the increase to [X]. I'm pleased to accept. Could you send the updated offer letter, and confirm the compensation review date we discussed so it's on record? Looking forward to starting on [date]. Best, [You]

Script 6: declining gracefully

Hi [Name], thank you for the offer and for your time throughout the process. After careful thought I've decided to pursue a different direction, so I'll be declining. I have real respect for what the team is building and hope our paths cross again. Best, [You]

What not to write

Justifications based on personal costs — rent, loans, what a friend earns. Employers pay for scope and market, not need.
Apologies. "I'm sorry to ask, but…" tells them the number is soft.
Multiple asks across multiple emails. Decide what matters, ask once.
Ultimatums or deadlines you don't intend to keep.
Anything you would be uncomfortable seeing forwarded to the CFO. Assume it will be.

Timing

Ask for the offer in writing and a day or two to review; send your counter within that window. If they respond with a call, it is fine to say you would like to see the revised figure in writing before deciding. Every serious employer will respect that, and it keeps the negotiation where you are strongest — on the page, with time to think.