How to negotiate salary over email?

Short answer: Email negotiation should be crisp, evidence-led, and respectful of timeline. A strong mail includes appreciation, rationale, expected range, and a clear next step. Keep it short enough to read in one screen but specific enough to approve.

Step-by-step approach

1. Use a precise subject line such as "Offer Discussion - [Your Name]".
2. Open with appreciation and confirm your interest in accepting the role.
3. Add 2 to 3 quantified reasons that support your revised expectation.
4. Mention your expected range and preferred structure in one clear paragraph.
5. Request a timeline for response and keep availability open for a call.
6. If no reply in two business days, send one professional follow-up.

Real-world example

Neha got an offer from Infosys while finishing interviews with two other firms. Instead of negotiating on chat, she sent a concise email with three impact metrics from her previous role at CRED and a realistic range. Arjun from Razorpay helped her remove emotional phrases and keep the message business-focused. HR replied the same day, revised the fixed pay, and closed the offer quickly.

What to say / email template

Hi [HR Name],

Thank you for sharing the offer. I am genuinely excited about this opportunity and would like to discuss compensation once before final acceptance.

Based on role scope and my recent outcomes in [domain] (for example: [metric 1], [metric 2], [metric 3]), I am targeting a CTC range of [X]-[Y], with preference for a stronger fixed component.

If feasible, please let me know whether we can review this. I am available for a quick call today/tomorrow.

Regards,
[Your Name]

Mistakes to avoid

• Writing long emotional mails without concrete evidence.
• Sending multiple reminders in a short span and appearing impatient.
• Using aggressive phrases like "final offer or I walk away."
• Forgetting to mention continued interest in joining.

One clear email beats five vague follow-ups.