What is the best way to negotiate a job offer that falls short of my salary expectations?

It is reasonable to feel hesitant when the offer is exciting but the salary is materially below what you expected. You can negotiate professionally, although no approach can completely eliminate the possibility that an employer will decline the request or withdraw an offer. Before responding, confirm that your $110,000–$120,000 range reflects the same role, location, experience level, and total compensation structure. Official wage data can help, but the appropriate range still depends on the specific position and market.

Start by expressing genuine enthusiasm, then connect your counteroffer to evidence and the value you would bring. You might say: “Thank you for the offer. I’m very enthusiastic about the role and the opportunity to contribute. Based on my experience in [relevant area], the responsibilities we discussed, and compensation data for comparable positions in this market, I was expecting a base salary closer to $115,000. Is there flexibility to move the offer toward that level?” A specific figure gives the employer something concrete to evaluate. Choose an amount you can support rather than automatically requesting the highest number in your research range.

If the base salary cannot reach your target, ask whether the overall package can be improved through a signing bonus, additional paid time off, equity, remote or hybrid flexibility, professional-development funding, or an earlier compensation review with clearly defined performance criteria. Decide in advance on your minimum acceptable package and which terms matter most. Make the request once, keep the tone collaborative, and allow the employer time to respond. Do not resign from your current position or make irreversible commitments until you have the final terms in writing. If the gap remains too large, you can decline respectfully while preserving the relationship.