Negotiating your pay doesn’t have to feel combative. With a clear ask, calm tone, and a few reusable lines, you can advocate for your value—without burning bridges. Use the plug-and-play scripts below as starters for a salary negotiation script (new offer), an in-role raise script, and a freelance rate increase email. Edit brackets, add your numbers, and deliver with confidence.
Quick Prep (3 Steps, 5 Minutes)
- Target & floor: Pick a confident target (what you’ll ask) and a quiet walk-away number.
- Evidence: Three bullets that tie your work to outcomes (revenue, savings, speed, quality).
- Alternates: If base can’t move, which levers help? (sign-on, bonus, title, PTO, remote, scope).
New Job Offer — Salary Negotiation Script
You (phone/Zoom): “Thanks for the offer—I’m excited about the role and team. Based on the scope and market data for [role/level/geo], I’m targeting $[X] base with total comp around $[Y]. Can we explore that range?”
If asked for justification: “In my last role I [impact: ‘reduced cycle time 28%’ / ‘grew pipeline by $1.2M’]. I’ll bring that playbook here, which is why $[X] feels aligned.”
If they counter below target: “I appreciate that. If base is capped at $[A], could we bridge with a $[B] sign-on and title alignment to [Title], plus a six-month compensation review tied to [objective]?”
If timing is the blocker: “Understood. If we start at $[A], can we schedule a written review in six months with criteria X/Y/Z for moving to $[X]?”
Current Role — Raise Script
You (manager 1:1): “I’d like to revisit compensation. Over the last [timeframe] I [three bullets: ‘led ___ launch,’ ‘cut costs by ___,’ ‘mentored ___’]. Based on scope and market, I’m seeking an adjustment to $[X].”
If budget is tight: “If we can’t reach $[X] now, I’m open to a path: $[A] today with a written plan to $[X] by [date], tied to [measurable goals]. Could we also consider a one-time bonus or additional PTO?”
If they need time: “Thanks for considering. What would be helpful from me, and when can we reconvene? I’ll send a one-pager with metrics today.”
Freelance — Rate Increase Email
Subject: Updating scope & rate for [Project/Retainer] starting [Month]
Hi [Name],
Over the past [period], we’ve delivered [one-line result], including [brief outcome]. To maintain quality and faster turnaround, my standard rate for [service] will adjust to $[new rate] starting [date] (from $[old rate]).
To make this simple, here are two options:
1) Retainer: [deliverables] at $[price]/month (priority turnaround).
2) Project: [scope] at $[price] (fixed, includes one revision).
If you confirm by [date], I’m happy to honor the current rate for one final cycle. Thanks for the partnership—looking forward to next steps.
Best,
[You]
Freelance — Short Call Quote
You: “For the outcome you described—[result] by [date]—the fixed investment is $[price], which includes [deliverables] and [turnaround]. Shall I send the SOW today?”
If they want cheaper: “We can land at $[lower] by removing [deliverable] and moving the deadline to [date]. Which option works best?”
Objection Handling (Copy/Paste Replies)
- “That’s above our range.” “Totally get it. If base must stay at $[A], which levers have room—sign-on, bonus, title, PTO, or a six-month review tied to [metric]?”
- “We pay the same for everyone at this level.” “I respect consistency. Given scope and impact, what’s the path to [next level] and timeline to align compensation?”
- “Can you hold the old rate?” “To keep quality and response times, $[new] is the sustainable rate. I can honor the current rate for one last cycle if we confirm by [date].”
Numbers You Can Stand On
- Salary target: Use credible ranges; anchor near the 60–75th percentile for your role/geo.
- Freelance floor: (Time × target hourly) + tool costs + 20% buffer = minimum viable price. Quote fixed where possible.
- Anchor cleanly: “Based on scope and outcomes, I’m targeting $[X].” (Pause—let them respond.)
Delivery Tips & Timeline
- Tone first, numbers second: Lead with enthusiasm, then ask.
- Silence is a tool: After the ask, stop talking. Let them process.
- Recap in writing: “Thanks—recapping my understanding…” and list next steps.
- Follow-up: Same day send recap; +3 business days nudge; +7 days lock alternates or next steps.
Bottom line: Know your numbers, ask cleanly, and trade smartly. These scripts give you steady language for high-stakes moments—so your value and compensation align.