Most employers expect you to negotiate. By not negotiating, you may leave money on the table. Here's how to approach it professionally.
Should you negotiate?
In most cases, yes. Negotiating shows:
- You know your value
- You can advocate for yourself
- You're thoughtful about decisions
Exceptions: If the offer matches or exceeds your expectations, or the employer clearly stated the salary is non-negotiable.
Do your research first
Know what the market pays before negotiating:
- Salary surveys (e.g., from professional associations)
- Glassdoor salary data
- LinkedIn Salary Insights
- Talk to people in similar roles
- Job postings with salary ranges
The negotiation conversation
Express enthusiasm first
Start positive:
"I'm really excited about this opportunity and can see myself contributing a lot to the team."
Then make your case
State your counteroffer and explain why:
"Based on my research and experience, I was hoping for something closer to [X]. I have [specific skills/experience] that I believe add significant value to this role."
Be specific
Give a specific number, not a range. If you say "40,000-45,000," they'll focus on the lower number.
Beyond salary
If salary is fixed, negotiate other things:
- Signing bonus: Easier than ongoing salary increase
- Vacation days: Extra days have value
- Flexible hours: Work from home, flexible start times
- Professional development: Training budget, courses
- Title: May matter for future opportunities
- Review timing: Earlier salary review (6 months instead of 12)
What if they say no?
If they can't meet your request:
- Ask what is possible
- Explore non-salary benefits
- Ask for a salary review after 6 months
- Decide if the offer is still acceptable
Remember: Negotiating rarely loses you an offer. Employers understand it's part of the process.
Danish context
In Denmark, be aware that:
- Many jobs follow collective agreements with set salary bands
- Public sector has less negotiation room
- Pension contributions are typically separate from salary
- The negotiation style is typically calm and collaborative
Common mistakes to avoid
- Making it confrontational: It's a discussion, not a fight
- Giving an ultimatum: Unless you mean it
- Focusing only on money: Total package matters
- Not having a reason: "I want more" isn't compelling
- Negotiating too late: Do it before you accept
Try it yourself
- Research market salary for your role
- Determine your target and minimum acceptable
- List 3 reasons you deserve your target salary
- Practice the conversation out loud
Next step
Once you've accepted the offer, learn how to resign from your current job properly.