5 Salary Negotiation Scripts That Actually Work
Word-for-word scripts you can use to negotiate better pay. Tested across industries and adapted for different cultures.
You're Probably Leaving $5,000-$15,000 on the Table
Here's a wild stat: 57% of workers never negotiate their salary. And of the people who do negotiate, 85% get some kind of increase. So the math is pretty simple. Not negotiating is the most expensive mistake you can make.
But most people skip it because they don't know what to say. So here are five scripts. Word for word.
Script 1: The Standard Counter
When to use it: You got an offer and want more.
"Thank you for the offer. I'm genuinely excited about this role. Based on my research into market rates for this position in [city], and considering my [X years] of experience with [specific skill], I was hoping we could discuss a base salary closer to [target]. I want to make sure the compensation reflects the value I'll bring to the team."
Why it works: You show enthusiasm (they need to know you actually want the job), you cite data (not feelings), and you frame it as alignment, not a demand.
Script 2: The Data-Driven Approach
When to use it: You've got hard numbers to back you up.
Before you use this one, do your homework. Pull data from Levels.fyi (best for tech), Glassdoor, Payscale, Salary.com, and Blind (anonymous but surprisingly accurate for tech companies). Cross-reference at least two sources.
"I've been researching on Levels.fyi and Glassdoor for [role] in [city]. The median compensation for someone with my experience level is [range]. The current offer falls below the 25th percentile. I'd love to find a number that works for both of us. Would [target] be feasible?"
Why it works: Hard to argue with data. You're not saying "give me more money." You're saying "here's what the market looks like."
Script 3: The Competing Offer
When to use it: You have another offer in hand.
"I want to be transparent. I have another offer at [competing amount]. I prefer [this company] because [genuine reason], but I want to make sure the compensation is competitive. Is there flexibility to match or get closer to [target]?"
Why it works: Competing offers are the strongest leverage you can have. But only use this if you actually have one. They might call your bluff.
Script 4: When They Say the Salary Is Fixed
When to use it: The base salary won't budge.
"I understand the base salary is firm. Would it be possible to discuss other parts of the package? For example, a signing bonus, an extra week of PTO, a 6-month salary review with a clear target, remote work flexibility, or a professional development budget. I'm flexible on how we get there."
Why it works: The budget might genuinely be locked. But there's almost always room to move on non-salary stuff.
Script 5: Adjusting for Culture
Different countries negotiate differently. Here's the short version:
- US/Canada: Being direct is fine. Lead with data and confidence.
- UK: Go softer. "I wonder if there might be some flexibility..." lands better than "I want X."
- Germany: Very fact-based. Bring printouts. Cite specific sources.
- Japan: Focus on long-term commitment and group harmony. Push on bonuses and allowances rather than base salary.
Five Rules for Every Negotiation
- Don't give the first number if you can avoid it.
- Do it on a call or in person. Not over email for the first pass.
- Use silence. After you make your ask, stop talking. They'll fill the gap.
- Never accept on the spot. "I'd like to sleep on it" is always okay.
- Be kind. This person might be your future coworker. Don't burn it.
Generate Your Own Scripts
Need something tailored to your specific situation, role, and country? Our Salary Negotiation Tool generates culture-aware scripts from your offer details. Free and instant.
Last updated: February 2026