What to say in salary negotiation

Teens 13–17 · How-to · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What do you need before starting a salary negotiation?

Before you even begin talking about salary, preparation is key. First, research typical pay for the job you want. Use websites, talk to adults you trust, or check local job listings to find out what others earn in similar roles. For example, if you’re applying for a retail job, find out what pay is common in your city or state. Next, make a list of your skills, experiences, and accomplishments that relate to the job. Even if you don’t have paid work experience, volunteering, school projects, or extracurricular activities can show your value.

Also, decide on two salary numbers ahead of time: your ideal salary (what you hope to get) and your minimum acceptable salary (the lowest you’ll accept). For example, if similar jobs pay $12 to $15 per hour, your ideal might be $15, but you might be willing to accept $13. This helps you stay confident and know when to say yes or no.

Finally, think about the whole job offer—not just money. Benefits like flexible hours, bonuses, or paid time off matter, too. Preparing all this information before the conversation makes you ready to explain your request clearly and calmly.

What is the first step in salary negotiation and why?

Starting your negotiation right is important because it sets the tone for the whole talk. Begin by thanking the employer for the offer. For example, say, “Thank you so much for offering me this position. I’m really excited about the opportunity.” This shows you appreciate the chance and respect their time.

Next, clearly state your salary request. Use specific numbers based on your research. You could say, “Based on my research and experience, I was hoping for a salary around $X per hour.” Being precise avoids confusion and shows you’re serious.

Then, explain why you think this salary fits. For example, “I’ve completed several volunteer projects that taught me valuable skills for this job, and I believe this matches the pay for similar positions in this area.” This helps the employer understand your reasoning.

After that, ask questions about the offer, like, “Could you tell me more about the benefits or opportunities for growth?” This shows you care about more than just money.

Finally, wait for their response. Don’t interrupt or rush. Listening carefully shows respect and helps you understand their position.

How do you say what you want during negotiation?

Saying what you want clearly and politely helps your employer take your request seriously. Here are some exact phrases you can use:

• “Thank you for the offer. I’m excited about this role. I was wondering if the salary could be adjusted to $X, considering my skills and research.”
• “Could you help me understand how you decided on this salary?”
• “Is there flexibility for salary or other benefits like extra vacation days or training opportunities?”
• “Can we discuss performance reviews or raises after a few months?”

It’s okay to pause after making your request to let the employer think or respond. Practicing these sentences out loud with a family member or friend can boost your confidence. Also, keep your tone friendly and calm. For example, avoid sounding demanding or upset, even if you feel disappointed. Remember, negotiation is a conversation, not an argument.

How do you know if the negotiation worked?

You’ll know your negotiation worked if your employer agrees to your salary request or offers a compromise that’s better than the original offer. For example, if you asked for $15 per hour and they offer $14, this shows progress. Sometimes, they might keep your salary the same but add benefits like flexible hours, training, or performance bonuses.

Another sign is if the employer explains next steps for raises, such as, “We usually review pay after six months.” This means your conversation opened doors for future growth.

If you receive a clear answer or offer soon after your talk, that also shows the employer took your request seriously. However, if they give vague replies like “We’ll think about it” for a long time, you may want to follow up politely after a few days.

What should you do if the negotiation doesn’t go well?

If the employer says no to your salary request, don’t get upset. Stay polite and ask about other parts of the job. For example, “I understand. Could you tell me about the benefits or if there’s a chance for a raise after a few months?” This shows you’re flexible and still interested.

If the offer is below your minimum salary, think carefully before accepting. Sometimes, a lower salary can be okay if the job provides valuable experience or skills you want. But don’t be afraid to say no if it won’t meet your needs.

You can respond with something like, “Thank you for considering my request. I’m very interested in the position, but I need to think about the salary. Can I get back to you?” Then take time to decide.

If the employer stands firm and you decide the salary is too low, keep looking for other jobs and continue building your skills. Remember, saying no now doesn’t close doors forever—you can try again next time.

How can teens adapt salary negotiation for their situation?

As a teen, you might have less work experience than adults, and that’s okay. Focus on what you do have: your willingness to learn, reliability, and any related skills or volunteer experience. Be honest about your background and explain how you’ll add value.

For example, you could say, “I may be new to paid work, but I’m a quick learner and very responsible. I’m excited to contribute to your team.” This helps employers see your potential.

Since teens often apply for internships, part-time jobs, or entry-level roles, keep your salary requests reasonable and based on typical pay for your area and age group. Practice your negotiation with a parent, teacher, or mentor before talking to an employer to get feedback.

Also, remember that negotiation isn’t just about money. You can ask about flexible hours, training, or chances to move up. These benefits can be just as important.

What should you ask for in salary negotiation?

When negotiating, asking the right questions helps you understand the full offer. Here are some you can use:

• “Is the salary negotiable?”
• “What benefits come with this job, like paid time off or health insurance?”
• “Are there opportunities for raises or promotions?”
• “What is the typical work schedule?”
• “Are there bonuses or incentives for good performance?”

Asking these shows you’re interested in the entire job package, not just the paycheck. It also gives you more information to decide if the job fits your needs.

Here’s a quick checklist to guide your questions:

Use these questions naturally during your conversation to show you’re thoughtful and prepared.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find out what a fair salary is for my job?

Check online job sites, ask adults with similar jobs, or look at local listings to see what others earn. Libraries or school career centers may also have resources. This helps you set a realistic salary range.

Can I negotiate salary if I’m under 18?

Yes, you can negotiate. Employers expect some negotiation, even from teens. Just keep your requests reasonable and be polite. Focus on your skills and enthusiasm.

What if I’m too shy to negotiate in person?

It’s okay to feel shy. Practice with a trusted adult or write down what you want to say. If speaking directly feels too hard, you can start with a polite email or phone call. See for tips on writing a salary negotiation email.

How soon should I negotiate salary after getting an offer?

Wait until you receive a formal job offer before negotiating. This way, the employer knows you’re serious. Once you get the offer, respond promptly—usually within a day or two—to start the conversation.

What if the employer offers benefits instead of more money?

Sometimes employers can’t increase pay but can offer benefits like flexible hours, training, or extra vacation. Think about what matters most to you and consider accepting these if the salary isn’t negotiable.