Guides

How to Negotiate a Job Offer

Daniel Okafor·Updated June 26, 2026· 6 min read

Negotiating an offer is expected, not rude — and it rarely costs you the job when done professionally. From the hiring side, a reasonable, well-researched ask signals confidence.

Do your research

Know the market range for the role, your location, and your experience. Anchor your ask to data, not a number you hope for.

Ask professionally

Express genuine enthusiasm first, then make a specific, justified request: "I'm excited about the role. Based on my experience and the market, could we get the base to X?" Stay collaborative, not combative.

Negotiate beyond salary

Signing bonus, equity, or a performance review at 6 months.
Remote/flexibility, extra leave, or a learning budget.
Start date and title.

Get the timing right

Negotiate after you have a written offer but before you accept — that's the moment you have the most leverage and the company is most invested in you. Don't negotiate salary during early interviews; you haven't yet proven your value or received an offer to push against. When asked about expectations early on, it's fine to give a researched range and say you're flexible for the right role.

Handle the counteroffer calmly

After you ask, expect a pause or a counter. Don't rush to fill the silence or cave immediately. If they can't move on base pay, that's your cue to explore the other levers. And always get the final agreement in writing before you resign from your current job.

Once agreed, get it in writing. Employers can issue an offer letter documenting the final terms.

Offer letter generator

Frequently asked questions

Can negotiating cost me the offer?

Very rarely, if you're respectful and reasonable. Employers expect some negotiation and budget for it; a polite, data-backed ask is normal.

What if there's no room on salary?

Negotiate other levers — signing bonus, equity, flexibility, extra leave, or an early review. Total compensation is more than base pay.

Daniel Okafor

Recruiter & ATS Specialist

Daniel has spent years on the hiring side, screening resumes through applicant tracking systems. He covers how ATS software really works, keyword optimisation, and the hiring documents employers expect.

How to Negotiate a Job Offer

Do your research

Ask professionally

Negotiate beyond salary

Get the timing right

Handle the counteroffer calmly

Frequently asked questions

Related reading

Do your research

Ask professionally

Negotiate beyond salary

Get the timing right

Handle the counteroffer calmly