31 ready-to-use English phrases plus three full counter-offer scripts — so you can discuss compensation, push back on an offer, and negotiate the whole package without sounding aggressive.
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Cultural note: negotiation is expected
In most English-speaking tech markets, the first offer is an opening position — not a final one. Recruiters expect a counter and almost never withdraw an offer because you asked. The goal is collaborative, not adversarial: you and the company are solving a problem together, not fighting. Anchor on genuine enthusiasm, back your number with data, and keep the tone warm.
Set a collaborative tone. You are not making demands — you are starting a discussion.
Thank you for the offer — I'm genuinely excited about the role and the team.💡 Always anchor on enthusiasm before talking numbers.
Before I sign, I'd like to discuss the compensation to make sure it works for both of us.
I'd love to walk through the total package together — base, bonus, and equity.
Could we set aside a few minutes to talk through the offer details?
I want to be transparent about my expectations so we can find a fit that works.
Stating your expectations
Give a number or a range with confidence. A range signals flexibility; a single number signals certainty.
Based on my experience and the scope of this role, I was targeting a base in the range of [X] to [Y].
My expectation for a role at this level is around [X].
Given the responsibilities we discussed, I'm looking for something in the [X]–[Y] range.
I'd be comfortable accepting at [X], which reflects the market for this position.
To be upfront, [X] is the figure that would make this an easy yes for me.
Countering an offer
Justify with data, not emotion. Reference market research, your impact, or competing offers.
Thank you — I appreciate the offer. Based on my research, the market range for this role is [X] to [Y].💡 Cite a source: levels.fyi, Glassdoor, a recruiter, or peers.
I was hoping we could get the base closer to [X]. Is there flexibility there?
The offer is a little below what I expected for this level. Could we revisit the base?
I'm very keen to join. If we can bridge the gap to [X], I'm ready to sign today.
Is [X] the top of the band for this level, or is there room to move?
What would it take to get to [X]?💡 A great open question — it puts the problem-solving on their side.
Leveraging a competing offer
Be honest. Never bluff about an offer you do not have — it is easy to call.
I want to be transparent: I have another offer at [X], but your team is my first choice.
I'm weighing a competing offer. Is there room to make the numbers more comparable?
Your role is my preference, but the gap with my other offer is significant. Can we close it?
I'd rather join you. If you can match [X], I'll decline the other offer this week.
Negotiating beyond base salary
If base is capped, the total package usually isn't. Trade across levers.
If the base is fixed, could we look at a signing bonus to bridge the difference?
Would you consider additional equity, or accelerating the vesting schedule?
I'd value extra PTO — could we add a few days to the standard allowance?
Is fully remote (or three days remote) an option for this role?
Could we agree to a salary review at six months instead of the standard twelve?
Would the company cover a relocation allowance or a home-office budget?
Could we put a guaranteed first-year bonus in writing?
Accepting or declining gracefully
This works for me — I'm delighted to accept. Could you send the updated offer in writing?💡 Always get the final number in writing before celebrating.
Thank you for working with me on this. I'm excited to get started.
I've thought it over carefully, and I've decided to pursue another opportunity. I'm grateful for your time and the offer.
It's a difficult decision, but I'm going to decline. I'd love to stay in touch for the future.
Full counter-offer scripts
Copy, paste, and swap the [placeholders]. Replace ranges with real market figures from levels.fyi, Glassdoor, or a recruiter.
Script 1 — Counter-offer email (market data)
Subject: Re: Offer for [Senior Backend Engineer]
Hi [Name],
Thank you so much for the offer — I'm genuinely excited about the team and the work on [project/product].
I've reviewed the package carefully. Based on my research for senior backend roles in [city/market] and the scope we discussed, I was targeting a base in the range of [X]–[Y]. The current offer of [Z] sits a little below that band.
Would there be flexibility to bring the base closer to [X]? If we can get there, I'm ready to sign right away.
Thanks again — I'm looking forward to joining.
Best,
[Your name]
Script 2 — Trading across the package
Subject: Re: Offer — a couple of questions
Hi [Name],
Thank you for the offer. I'm keen to accept and want to find a structure that works for both of us.
I understand the base may be near the top of the band. If that's the case, could we look at one of the following?
• A signing bonus of [X] to offset the gap, or
• Additional equity / accelerated vesting, or
• A salary review at six months.
Any one of these would make this an easy yes. Happy to jump on a quick call if that's easier.
Best,
[Your name]
Script 3 — Spoken counter (phone / call)
"Thank you — I really appreciate the offer, and I want you to know this is my first choice.
I've done some research, and for this level the market range looks like [X] to [Y]. The current base is at the lower end of that. Is there any room to move the base toward [X]?
I'm not trying to squeeze — I just want the number to reflect the role so I can commit fully. What would it take to get there?"
How to use this cheatsheet
Research your number first — know the market range for your level and city before you reply.
Pick one opening phrase and one counter phrase; rehearse them out loud until they sound natural.
Lead with enthusiasm, then state your range, then ask an open question.
If base is capped, move to the "beyond base salary" levers.
Get the final number in writing before you accept.