Introduction
What if a job offer doesn‘t equate to your skills, experience and market value? You are not obliged to accept your offer straight away. Thank the company‘s hiring managers for the offer, tell them why you believe you should be paid more and support yourself by citing your experience and accomplishments and matching them to the job description. If the company truly can not pay you the sort of salary you believe you are worth, and you are happy to walk away and explore new opportunities elsewhere, you can politely reject an offer. Good salary negotiation together with a good impression can land you a good deal.
Why You Shouldn‘t Accept the First Offer Immediately
A lot of job seekers assume the offer letter is the last step in the hiring process. When in fact, it‘s just the beginning of the salary negotiation.
Most companies have a salary range for each position. The first offer will be at the bottom of that range so you have some room to move.
Before accepting, ask yourself:
- Is this salary appropriate for my experience?
- Is there corporate competitiveness in my city?
- Does it accurately depict the job role?
Use Your Experience to Justify a Higher Salary
Never ask for a higher payment without a cause.
Instead, note why your experience is good value.
For example:
- You have 3–5 years of experience in the field.
- You‘ve worked on similar projects before.
- You hold certifications or have technical skills.
- You‘ve proven success in past roles.
The greater your achievements, the greater your power of negotiation.
Refer to the Job Requirements
The most effective negotiation tactic is listing your qualifications that match with a job description.
If you meet or beat most of the requirements, mention this while conversing.
You can say:
From what I have seen and the duties listed for this position I was expecting a package nearer to ₹10 LPA.
Maintains the Professional nature of the conversation and brings the focus back to the real reason you are there.
Don‘t Negotiate Based on Personal Expenses
Avoid saying things like:
- My rent is high.
- I have loans.
- My family relies on me.
These reasons are understandable, but most of the times employers set wages according to business value.
Instead, focus on:
- Skills
- Experience
- Industry knowledge
- Previous achievements
Understand Salary Bands
Many Indian companies have different salary levels for:
- Freshers
- Junior professionals
- Mid-level employees
- Senior employees
If you‘ve been in the industry 3, 4, or even 5 years but the position is expected to pay an entry level salary, make sure the benefits package is reflective of your experience.
A polite enquiry may also still turn out to be a new offer.
Be Ready to Walk Away
Your biggest negotiating advantage is knowing you don‘t have to take every deal.
If:
- Salary is way below market standards,
- The firm refuses to compromise, and
- You have other opportunities,
And thus turning down the offer seem to be a smarter decision.
Never bluff. Only walk away if you are really prepared to.
Keep the Conversation Professional
Always thank the recruiter before introducing salary.
Example:
Thanks for the offer. I am eager to join. Considering my experience, scope of work of the profile and other offers I received, I was expecting closer to 10LPA.
This sounds quite humble but confident.
When Should You accept the Offer:
Sometimes when you think about doing something, you don‘t even have to try.
Accept the offer if:
- The salary is fair.
- Here Good career growth from the company.
- Bonuses and benefits are attractive.
- The role is aligned with your career goals.
A slightly lower salary today might also
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