Choose the most professional English phrases for discussing salary, countering offers, and negotiating compensation in 5 realistic scenarios.
Salary negotiation — 5 key phrases
"Based on my research into market rates, I'm looking at a range of [X–Y]."
"I was expecting something closer to [X]. Is there flexibility on the base salary?"
"Is there flexibility on [base / signing bonus / review timeline / equity]?"
"Could we revisit this after the probationary period / at the 3-month mark?"
"Could I have until [day] to review the written offer fully?"
0 / 5 completed
1 / 5
A recruiter asks: 'What are your salary expectations?' It's the first call. How do you respond?
"Based on my research" + market context + experience framing + range + openness to full package. "Based on my research into market rates" signals preparation, not guesswork. "Senior backend engineers in London" contextualises the range — it's market-driven, not arbitrary. "6 years of experience" justifies the level. A range (£75k–£85k) is better than a single number — the upper end anchors the negotiation, the lower end shows flexibility. "Open to discussing the full compensation package" opens space for equity, bonuses, and benefits. Never say "I'll take whatever you offer" — you lose all leverage. Never give a number with no justification.
2 / 5
A company offers you £68,000 but you were expecting £78,000. How do you negotiate professionally?
Thank + affirm interest + state your expectation with justification + ask a specific question. "Thank you for the offer — I'm genuinely excited about this role" is not empty flattery — it prevents the employer from interpreting your counter as rejection of the role. "Based on my research and the scope of responsibility" grounds your counter in evidence, not desire. "I was expecting something closer to £78,000" is soft ("closer to") rather than confrontational ("I demand"). "Is there flexibility on base salary, or are there other elements?" opens multiple paths — total comp flexibility even when base is fixed. Never lead with disappointment — it creates a defensive atmosphere.
3 / 5
A hiring manager says 'The base salary is fixed at that level.' You still want to negotiate. What do you say?
When base is fixed, pivot to total compensation — naming specific alternatives. "I understand" acknowledges their constraint without capitulating immediately. Naming specific alternatives — "signing bonus, earlier performance review, additional annual leave" — shows you've thought about this. Signing bonuses are one-time costs, which is easier for companies to approve than recurring salary increases. An earlier performance review (e.g., after 3 months instead of 12) gives you a faster path to a raise. Annual leave is very low cost for the company. "I want to make this work" signals collaborative intent — you're not issuing an ultimatum. Never reference competitor offers unless you have a real competing offer to leverage.
4 / 5
You receive a verbal offer but need time to decide. How do you professionally ask for more time?
Thank + reaffirm interest + request written offer + give a specific deadline + explain why. "I'm very interested" keeps the employer engaged — they worry about losing you while you deliberate. "Could you send the written offer" — you should never evaluate based on a verbal offer alone. "Could I have until Friday?" is specific — not "a few days" or "some time." "I want to give it the consideration it deserves" is a professional explanation that flatters without being sycophantic. Taking time to review a job offer is completely normal and expected. Never rush into accepting or declining. "I need to ask my family" is personal — keep it professional.
5 / 5
You're negotiating for a senior role and want to ask about equity. Which phrasing is most professional?
Ask specific, informed questions about equity — it shows sophistication. "Could we discuss the equity component" is polite and direct. Asking about three specific dimensions: (1) "vesting schedule" — when does your equity become yours? (2) "current valuation" — what are the shares worth now? (3) "how much is typically offered at this level" — is your grant competitive? "So I can evaluate the full package accurately" explains why you're asking — you're being thorough, not greedy. Vague questions like "What's the equity situation?" get vague answers. "I want stock options — it's standard" sounds demanding. Informed, specific questions show you know what you're talking about and earn more complete answers.