I Negotiated My Remote Salary $10K Higher — Here's My Exact Script
My first remote job offer was $55K. I almost said yes immediately — then I spent 2 hours researching and writing one email.
Three days later, I started at $65K. Same job, same company. Here's exactly what I wrote.
The Situation
Role: Remote Customer Support Specialist
Initial offer: $55,000/year
Market research: Similar roles paid $58K-$68K (via Glassdoor + Salary Calculator)
My target: $65,000 (top of range for my experience level)
My Exact Negotiation Email
Subject: Re: Job Offer - Customer Support Specialist Hi [Hiring Manager], Thank you so much for the offer! I'm excited about joining [Company] and contributing to the support team. I've reviewed the offer carefully, and I'd like to discuss the base salary. Based on my research of similar remote support roles and my 3 years of customer-facing experience, I was hoping for a salary closer to $65,000. Here's what I'd bring to the role: - 3 years managing high-volume support tickets (avg. 95% satisfaction score) - Experience with Zendesk, Intercom, and Salesforce - Proven ability to work across US time zones I'm confident I can deliver strong results from day one. Is there flexibility in the salary to meet at $65,000? I'm happy to discuss this over a call if that's easier. Looking forward to hearing from you! Best, [Your Name]
✅ Why this worked:
- Started with enthusiasm (shows I still want the job)
- Gave a specific number backed by research
- Listed concrete value I'd bring
- Made it easy for them to say yes or counter
- Stayed collaborative, not demanding
What Happened Next
Day 1 (Monday):
Sent the email at 10 AM
Day 2 (Tuesday):
Hiring manager replied: "Let me discuss with the team and get back to you."
Day 3 (Wednesday):
Got the call: "We can do $65,000. Welcome to the team!"
Total time invested: 2 hours of research + 30 minutes writing
Return: $10,000/year = $5,000/hour 🎯
The Negotiation Framework
Step 1: Research Market Rates
- Check Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, PayScale
- Use RemotelyYou Salary Calculator
- Ask industry friends what they're making
- Look at similar job postings with salary ranges
Step 2: Pick Your Number
- Aim for 10-20% above their offer
- Use a specific number ($65,000, not "$60-70K")
- Make sure it's within market range
Step 3: Write Your Email
Template:
1. Express enthusiasm 2. State your requested salary 3. Provide 2-3 reasons why (skills, experience, market data) 4. Ask if there's flexibility 5. Offer to discuss further
Common Negotiation Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Accepting the first offer immediately
Companies expect negotiation. Saying yes too fast leaves money on the table.
❌ Giving a salary range
They'll anchor to the low end. State one specific number.
❌ Negotiating over the phone unprepared
Email gives you time to think and provides a paper trail.
❌ Bringing up personal expenses
"I need more because my rent is high" doesn't work. Focus on value you bring.
FAQ: Salary Negotiation for Remote Jobs
Should I negotiate my first remote job offer?
Yes! 70% of employers expect candidates to negotiate. The worst they can say is no — and they rarely rescind offers for respectful negotiation.
How much can I negotiate for a remote job salary?
Typically 10-20% above the initial offer. Research market rates using Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, or RemotelyYou Salary Calculator. Start with a specific number backed by data.
When should I negotiate my remote job salary?
Only after you receive a written offer. Never discuss salary expectations too early in the interview process.
What if the company says the offer is non-negotiable?
Negotiate other benefits: signing bonus, extra PTO, home office stipend, professional development budget, or earlier salary review.
Prepare for Your Remote Job Offer
Written by Melanie Komjatiová, Remote Work Consultant and founder of RemotelyYou.co.