How to Write a Counter Offer Letter (With Examples)

Receiving a job offer is exciting. However, before you write a job acceptance letter, you need to make sure that you’re being fairly compensated for the work you’re about to undertake.

That’s where a counter offer letter comes in.

Read on to learn more about what a counter offer letter is, when you should write one, and how to use it to convince employers of your value as a professional.

What is a counter offer letter?

A counter offer letter is a physical letter or email candidates send to an employer when they want to negotiate the terms of a job offer given to them.

The purpose of a counter offer letter is to signal that you’re seriously considering accepting the job, but want to adjust the compensation package before formally accepting.

When you should send a counter offer letter

Consider writing a counter offer letter in these situations:

• You have unique skills, qualifications, or expertise that you believe warrant a higher salary
• The compensation you’ve been offered is below the normal salary range for your position and location
• You have competing job offers and want to negotiate to secure a better compensation package
• You want to negotiate benefits other than your base salary, such as bonuses, equity, vacation days, or flexible work arrangements

Counter offer email template

Use this counter offer template to write your letter:

Download Template

What to include in a counter offer letter

Include these details in your counter offer letter to improve your chances of receiving a positive response:

1. A professional salutation

All correspondence with hiring managers and potential employers should start off with a professional salutation, including your counter offer letter.

Avoid dated phrases like “Dear Sir or Madam”, or “To Whom It May Concern”. At this point you should know the hiring manager’s name, so use that in your salutation.

2. A gracious introduction

Keep your counter offer letter brief and professional and express gratitude for the opportunity.

Instead of starting off your counter offer letter by immediately outlining the terms of your counter offer, begin the letter by expressing your appreciation for the job offer and the opportunity extended to you.

3. Your counter offer

Clearly state the terms you would like to negotiate.

Be specific about your desired changes and provide a persuasive justification for your counter offer. Use market research, industry standards, or your qualifications to support your request.

Here’s how you can justify your counter offer using the STAR method:

@resumegenius How to justify a higher salary using the star method ? #starmethod #starmethodtips #interviewtips #salarynegotiation #salarynegotiationtips ♬ original sound – Resume Genius | Career Tips

4. A concluding paragraph

In your final paragraph, thank the hiring manager for the opportunity and for their time.

Mention that you’re willing to discuss the matter further to reach an agreement that suits both parties, and express that you’re serious about the job.

Counter offer letter examples

The way you approach a counter offer letter depends largely on what terms you want to negotiate. Here are three sample counter offer letters for three different situations:

Counter offer letter requesting additional compensation

This candidate uses a polite and confident tone to request the salary they think they deserve and back up their request with achievements that show the value they’ll bring to the organization.

Counter offer letter requesting additional benefits

When requesting accommodations or additional benefits, it’s important to restate your enthusiasm for the role so hiring managers are more willing to work with you.

Counter offer letter requesting relocation assistance

This candidate requests a relocation allowance by emphasizing how a smooth transition will benefit the company.

How to counter a salary offer via email

Follow these steps to write a compelling counter offer email:

1. Do your research

Just like you would if you were including salary requirements in a cover letter, before you start writing your counter offer letter, do some research to find out what the average salary is for someone in your target position.

Research provides evidence to support your counter offer and demonstrate that your request is reasonable. Keep in mind that salaries vary between states, so research the average salary range where you live. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is a good place to start.

2. Clearly justify your counter offer

Unless you justify why you deserve a higher salary or a more comprehensive benefits package, your counter offer is likely to get rejected.

Clearly articulate the reasons behind your counter offer to improve your chances of convincing the employer to agree to your terms. Some qualifications you can highlight are:

• Certifications
• Industry expertise
• Skills
• Accomplishments

3. Be respectful

Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout your counter offer letter.

Avoid using confrontational or demanding language. Instead, focus on presenting your case in a polite and constructive manner. This helps foster a positive atmosphere for negotiation.

4. Be open to negotiation

Demonstrate your willingness to engage in a constructive dialogue and find a mutually agreeable solution. Say that you’re open to discussing alternatives and encourage the hiring manager to reach out to you to discuss the matter further.

Emphasizing that your goal is to reach a fair and satisfactory outcome that recognizes your value and aligns with the employer’s objectives is more likely to get you what you want.

Frequently asked questions about counter offer letters

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive about counter offer letters:

How do you ask for a counter offer politely?

To ask for a counter offer politely, start by expressing your gratitude for the job offer and your enthusiasm about the opportunity. Then, explain your reasons for seeking a counter offer, emphasizing your qualifications and what you can bring to the organization.

How do you send a counter offer email?

To send a counter offer email, address it to the person who first extended the job offer to you. Write a clear subject line and keep your counter offer letter brief, focusing on the terms of your counter offer and why they should consider it.

How do you accept a counter offer via email?

When accepting a counter offer via email, show your appreciation for the employer’s willingness to negotiate the terms of the job offer. Confirm your acceptance of the counter offer, reiterate your commitment to the company, and express your eagerness to contribute to its success.

How should you word a counter offer letter?

When you draft a counter offer letter, always keep a professional tone. Don’t make any demands — instead, make requests. Employers are more likely to consider your counter offer if you’re being respectful.

How do you handle a low job offer?

If a job offer is significantly lower than you expected, you can ask the employer to improve the offer before you provide a counter-number. This strategy is particularly effective when the initial offer is below the market rate for your skills or doesn’t reflect your professional value.

Respond professionally by expressing your interest in the role but noting that the compensation package falls short of your expectations. Ask the recruiter if there is any flexibility to improve the offer before you provide a formal counter-proposal. This approach ensures you don’t ask for less than they’re actually willing to pay.