Many first-time job seekers accept the first number they are offered, worried that negotiating will seem ungrateful or cost them the job. In reality, polite negotiation is common, and employers rarely withdraw an offer simply because a candidate asked a reasonable, well-researched question. At the same time, not every entry-level offer has room to move.
This guide helps you decide whether to negotiate and how to do it respectfully.
When negotiation makes sense
Consider negotiating when:
- The offer is below the market range you researched for the role and location.
- You have a competing offer that is higher or better.
- You bring something specific the role needs: a relevant certification, language, technical skill or a strong internship.
- The job’s responsibilities are broader than the title suggests.
It may make less sense when:
- Pay is set by a published scale (common in government, unions, some large graduate programs and some hourly roles).
- The offer is already at or above the top of the market range.
- You would accept the offer anyway and the relationship matters more than a small increase.
Even with fixed pay, you may still be able to discuss start date, schedule or other terms.
Step 1: Do your research
Your case should rest on evidence, not personal needs. Gather:
- The salary range from the posting, if listed.
- Market data for similar roles in your city; see our guide to researching entry-level salaries.
- Your specific strengths that match the job’s requirements.
- Any competing offers (do not invent them; bluffing can backfire).
Decide your target number and your walk-away number before the conversation.
Step 2: Respond with enthusiasm first
Always start by showing you are excited about the role. Negotiation is a conversation between people who want to work together.
Step 3: Use a clear, polite script
Negotiation email or call
“Thank you again for the offer, I’m really excited about joining the team. Based on my research for entry-level analyst roles in Denver and the SQL and reporting experience I’d bring from my internship, I was hoping for a base salary closer to $55,000. Is there any flexibility on the base salary?”
Then stop talking and listen. Silence is fine.
Use a specific number rather than a vague “more”. Keep the request reasonable, typically within the researched range and not dramatically above the offer. The figures above are examples; use numbers from your own research.
Possible responses and how to reply
| Employer says | You can say |
|---|---|
| “Yes, we can do that.” | “Thank you, that’s great. I’m happy to accept.” |
| “We can meet you partway.” | Accept, or ask about another element (see below). |
| “The salary is fixed.” | “I understand. Is there flexibility on the start date, a review after six months or professional development support?” |
| “Let me check and get back to you.” | “Of course, thank you.” Wait patiently. |
Things you can negotiate besides salary
When base pay cannot move, other items sometimes can:
- A salary review after three or six months, written into the offer.
- A sign-on bonus.
- Start date.
- Remote or hybrid days.
- Training budget, courses or certifications.
- Equipment for home working.
- Extra paid leave (less common at entry level).
- Relocation support.
For entry-level roles, a written early review is one of the most useful and commonly accepted requests.
What not to do
- Do not make ultimatums unless you are truly prepared to walk away.
- Do not justify your request with personal expenses (“my rent is high”).
- Do not invent a competing offer.
- Do not negotiate by text message; use email or a call.
- Do not keep pushing after a clear final answer.
- Do not accept and then keep negotiating afterwards.
Get the final terms in writing
Once you agree, ask for an updated written offer reflecting the new terms before you formally accept. Review the employment contract checklist and then use our template to accept the offer professionally.
If you decide not to negotiate
That is a valid choice. If the offer is fair, the job is right and you want to start on a positive note, simply accept with enthusiasm. You can focus on performing well and preparing for your first raise conversation later.
Prepare your script before the offer arrives
Before your next offer arrives, research your market range and write your negotiation script in advance. Practice it aloud once. If an offer comes, use our first job offer checklist to decide whether negotiation is worth it.