How do you politely say the salary is too low?

Asked by: Nakia Ankunding PhD  |  Last update: February 18, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (31 votes)

I am quite excited and intrigued by the position and the opportunity to work for such a great company. However, the salary is lower than I was expecting, considering my background and experience. I would be more comfortable if the amount was closer to $X, and I would really like to see if we can make this work.”

How do you respond when your salary is too low?

It is pretty simple. You just say it in a positive way by saying ``I was looking for at least...'' or ``I am looking for a position with a higher salary.'' Don't be negative and don't say that the salary is too low. Don't be wishing washy and say you are hoping for a higher salary.

How do you say salary is lower than expected?

Example: "Thank you for the offer. I'm very excited about the prospect of joining your team. However, after careful consideration and based on my research on average salaries for this position with my experience level in [location], I was expecting a salary range closer to [your desired range]."

How do I politely say the salary is too low via email?

I would be direct but polite. State that the money is an issue but don't rub it in their face. I usually say something like ``I'm sorry but I'm looking for a higher salary'' or ``I'm sorry but I have other jobs that are offering me more''.

How to politely decline a job offer because salary is too low?

“I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to discuss salary expectations with me. Ultimately, I will have to decline this role/job offer as the salary is too far outside my expectations to leave my current position.”

How To Rebound When Your Salary Range Is Too Low

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How do you tell your boss your salary is too low?

4 Make a counteroffer

Be specific, realistic, and flexible. Don't just throw out a random number that is too high or too low. Explain why you deserve a higher salary and how it aligns with the market rate and your value to the employer. Provide evidence of your accomplishments, skills, and potential.

How to politely decline a lowball offer?

Keep your message concise, clear, and respectful. Briefly explain that you have carefully considered the offer but have decided to pursue other opportunities that better align with your career goals and compensation expectations. Maintain a positive tone by expressing your willingness to stay connected.

How do you say I don't get paid enough professionally?

Bring the evidence. Just saying “I feel like I'm underpaid” without being able to back it up won't be enough. If you expect your employer to raise your salary, you need to give them solid evidence that proves your point. Print out / note down your research and make sure you've taken them from reliable sources.

What is the best answer for salary negotiation?

5 steps for answering salary expectation
  • Thank the interviewer.
  • Use a delaying tactic to deflect the question.
  • If the interviewer insists, provide a salary range.
  • Provide a specific number if pressed.
  • Show flexibility and openness to negotiation.

What to do if you lowballed salary expectations?

What To Do If You've Lowballed Your Salary
  1. Address the Situation Promptly. Don't wait until your next interview or scheduled conversation with the hiring manager. ...
  2. Be Transparent and Own What Happened. Clear communication is appreciated. ...
  3. State Your True Salary Expectations.

How do you professionally say you are underpaid?

Express your concerns. During the meeting, be honest and explain that you want to feel more appreciation from your employer . Emphasize the importance of working at an organization that values your time and skills.

How do you describe low salary?

Meaning of low-paid in English. not earning or paying much money: low-paid jobs/work/staff Globalization has brought millions of unskilled, low-paid workers into the international workforce.

How do I professionally say I need more money?

Keep it professional

When explaining why you need more money, focus on your job performance rather than personal challenges such as increased housing or childcare costs. You are more likely to get a raise because of your accomplishments than financial reasons.

How do you say that your salary is too low?

Feel free to adjust it to your liking: “Thank you so much for the offer. I'm really excited about the company and the role. I want to be upfront with you that the salary is lower than I was expecting based on my skills and experience.

Can you lose a job offer by negotiating salary?

“First, understand that companies expect you to negotiate. If you're respectful, realistic, and strategic when negotiating salary, there is little risk that you'll lose the job offer entirely,” said Cole.

How do you respond to minimum salary requirements?

Provide a salary range. If you arrive at the point in the interview when it's time to provide a number, you could offer a range versus a single figure. Keep in mind, however, that the employer may opt for the lower end of your salary range so make sure your target number is as close to your bottom number as possible.

How to respond to a low salary offer?

Here is a list of steps on how to respond to a low salary offer:
  1. Ask for time. Whether the company presents the offer to you in person or through an email, it's important to ask for some time to process it and get back to them. ...
  2. Understand your minimum acceptable salary. ...
  3. Conduct research. ...
  4. Make a plan. ...
  5. Practice negotiations.

How do you politely ask for a higher salary offer?

First, express your enthusiasm for the position and appreciation for the initial offer. Next, make your case for a higher salary by highlighting your experience and skills. Ideally, you should also provide market research that supports your request.

How to respond to a low salary increase email sample?

Thank you for your offer of [offered amount]. After giving it some thought, I believe that I am worth more than this. I would like to counter with a salary of [proposed amount]. I have experience in [area of expertise], and I am confident that I can bring value to the company.

How do you politely say I can't afford it?

You could say something like: “You know what, I just can't afford it.” Or “I would love that, but it's just not something I can afford”.

How to tell your boss you aren't paid enough?

Here's what to do if you want to address your salary with your employer and seek a pay increase.
  1. Keep a level head. ...
  2. Gather evidence you're unpaid. ...
  3. Identify the reasons you deserve more pay. ...
  4. Schedule a well-timed meeting with your supervisor.

How to ask for a raise when you are underpaid?

Undervalued & Underpaid? 7 Essential Steps To Asking For A Raise
  1. Figure out how much you are worth. ...
  2. Build your case. ...
  3. Anticipate objections. ...
  4. Request a meeting with your boss. ...
  5. Rehearse. ...
  6. Know your bottom line. ...
  7. Don't hand down ultimatums.

How do you politely decline an offer for low salary?

If you're sure that you want to decline, consider saying something like this:"I appreciate the offer and your time, but I can't accept this position at the salary you're offering. If the salary range is something that can be negotiated, please let me know."

How do you respond to a ridiculously low offer?

Being honest and direct is important when you receive a low ball offer and make it clear that you believe the offer to be too far below market value. Do not respond right away; let them know that you will get back to them. Consider what strategy might work best.

When should you walk away from a job offer?

If the offer they give you can't match your must-haves — even after you've tried negotiating — it might be time to walk away. The second reason a job might not be the right opportunity is that you detect it has a certain environment that wouldn't be best for you.