Salary Negotiation Scripts That Actually Work (With Real Examples)
Aisha Patel • 2/28/2025 • Career Advice
Salary negotiation is the highest-ROI skill in your career. A single 30-minute conversation can add $10,000–$50,000 to your annual compensation — and that compounds over your entire career.
## The Golden Rule: Never Give a Number First
When asked "What are your salary expectations?" your goal is to deflect without being evasive.
**Script:** *"I'm flexible and more focused on finding the right fit. I'd love to understand the full compensation package and the range budgeted for this role before I share a number."*
If they push: *"I'd prefer to hear your range first so I can make sure we're aligned before going further."*
## When You Receive an Offer
Never accept on the spot. Always say:
*"Thank you so much — I'm really excited about this opportunity. I'd like to take 24–48 hours to review the full offer. Is that okay?"*
This is standard. No company will rescind an offer because you asked for time.
## The Counter-Offer Script
Research the market rate first (use Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, LinkedIn Salary). Then:
*"I'm very excited about this role and the team. Based on my research and [X years of experience / specific skill / competing offer], I was hoping we could get to [target number]. Is there flexibility there?"*
Key principles: - Give a specific number, not a range - Anchor high (you can always come down) - Always give a reason - Stay warm and collaborative, not adversarial
## Negotiating Beyond Base Salary
If they can't move on base, negotiate: - **Signing bonus** — Often easier to approve than base increases - **Equity/RSUs** — Especially at startups and tech companies - **Remote flexibility** — Saves you commute time and costs - **Extra PTO** — 5 extra days = 2% of your working year - **Professional development budget** — Courses, conferences, certifications - **Start date** — More time to decompress between jobs
## The "Competing Offer" Script
*"I want to be transparent — I do have another offer at [X amount]. But this role is my first choice because [genuine reason]. Is there any way to close the gap?"*
Only use this if it's true. Lying about competing offers is a career risk.
