How to negotiate salary in India: what to say, with scripts
To negotiate salary in India, wait for a written offer, thank them, then ask for a specific higher number backed by your value (skills, results and any competing offers). Discuss fixed pay separately from variable pay, joining bonus and notice-period buyout, stay polite and silent after making your ask, and get the final terms in writing.
- Negotiate after the offer, not in the first call
- Anchor on your value and the role, not only your current CTC
- Ask for a specific number, then stop talking
- Separate fixed pay, variable pay, joining bonus, ESOPs and notice buyout
- Always get the final offer in writing
Most professionals in India accept the first offer, often because negotiating feels awkward or risky. Done politely, it is neither. Employers expect it, and a single well-prepared conversation can change your pay for years.
Before the offer: handling "What is your current CTC?"
Many Indian recruiters ask for current and expected CTC early. You can answer honestly without anchoring yourself low:
"My current CTC is Rs 18 lakh, including Rs 3 lakh variable. For this role, given the scope and what the market pays for it, I'm looking for something in the Rs 24 to 26 lakh range, and I'm flexible on the structure."
Focus the conversation on the role's value, not just your last package.
When the offer arrives
- Thank them and ask for it in writing, with the full breakup.
- Take a day. "Thank you, I'm excited about this. Can I come back to you by tomorrow evening?"
- Check the breakup: fixed pay, variable pay and how it's paid, joining bonus, ESOPs, notice-period buyout, insurance and allowances.
The phone call script
"Thank you again for the offer. I'm genuinely keen on the role and the team. Based on the scope we discussed, especially [responsibility], and my experience [one strong result], I was hoping for a fixed component of Rs 26 lakh. If we can get there, I'm ready to accept."
Then stop talking. Let them respond. Silence feels uncomfortable, but it works.
Counter-offer email template
Subject: Offer for [Role]: next steps
Hi [Name],
Thank you for the offer for the [Role] position. I'm excited about joining [Company] and contributing to [goal].
Having reviewed the details, I'd like to request a fixed component of Rs [X] lakh. This reflects [your key strength or result] and the scope of the role, including [responsibility]. I'm also currently serving a [60]-day notice period, and a joining bonus to cover the buyout would help me join sooner.
If we can agree on this, I'm ready to sign. Thank you for considering it.
Regards, [Your name]
Replies to common pushbacks
- "This is our best offer." "I understand. Is there flexibility on the joining bonus or a salary review after six months instead?"
- "The budget for this band is fixed." "That makes sense. Could we look at the variable component, ESOPs or the title, so the overall package reflects the scope?"
- "We can only offer a 30% hike." "I appreciate that. My ask is based on the role's responsibilities rather than my current salary. Can we meet at Rs [X]?"
- "We need your answer by tomorrow." "I'll confirm by tomorrow. If we can close the gap on [item], I'm ready to accept."
What else you can negotiate
Joining bonus, notice-period buyout, a guaranteed review date, ESOPs, relocation support, remote or hybrid days, a better title, learning budget, and the start date.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to negotiate salary in India?
Yes. Most employers expect some negotiation, especially for experienced hires. Stay polite, specific and backed by your value.
How much higher should I counter?
Ask for a specific number you can justify by the role's scope, your results and any competing offers. A reasonable ask is usually closer to the employer's range than a dramatic jump.
Should I share my current CTC?
Many companies ask and some verify it. If you share it, also share your expectation and explain it in terms of the new role's scope.
Can an offer be withdrawn if I negotiate?
It is rare when you negotiate respectfully and once. Avoid ultimatums, and make it clear you want to join.
Salary negotiation script
A word-for-word script and counter-offer email, built from your offer and your experience.
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