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 Mel, Remote Work Consultant and founder of RemotelyYou.co.