Last updated: October 15, 2026
You passed the interview and the company makes an offer. The salary is lower than you hoped. Many freshers in Pakistan accept immediately because they fear the company will take the offer back. Asking politely is normal in many private jobs, and when done well it rarely costs you the offer. This guide gives you a simple five-step way to do it, with sample words you can use.
Please note: These are general good practices, not a guarantee. Every company is different, and a small company may simply have no room to move. Government jobs have fixed pay scales (BS grades), so this guide is for private-sector offers. Be honest in everything you say.
Can You Negotiate as a Fresher?
Often yes, but with realistic expectations. You have little experience, so you will not get a huge jump. A modest, polite request for a fair amount is reasonable, and a company that withdraws an offer only because you asked politely is showing you something about how it treats staff. If you are not sure, you can also ask about non-salary benefits (see step 4).
The 5 Steps
1. Know the usual range before the interview
Open about 10 current ads for similar jobs on Rozee, Mustakbil or LinkedIn and note the salaries where shown. Ask a senior or a relative in the same field what freshers are usually offered. Our post on in-demand IT skills shows how to do this in 15 minutes.
2. Do not start the money talk too early
Talk about the job and what you can do first. If you are asked about your expected salary early, you can say: “I would like to understand the role fully first. Can you tell me the range you have for this position?” If they insist, give a range based on step 1, not a single number.
3. Decide your numbers before you reply
- Your target: what you would be happy with.
- Your minimum: the lowest you can accept, thinking about transport and daily costs.
- Your reason: skills, an internship, a certificate, a project or a second language, not “I need more money”.
4. Make your request politely, in writing if possible
Thank them first, show interest, then ask. A simple email:
Subject: Offer for [Job Title]
Dear [Name],
Thank you for the offer. I am very interested in the role and in joining [Company]. Based on my skills in [skill 1] and [skill 2] and my experience in [internship or project], I was hoping for a salary of Rs. [amount]. Would it be possible to discuss this?
I look forward to your reply.
Regards,
[Your name]
If they cannot raise the salary, you can ask about other things:
- A salary review after 3 or 6 months
- A shorter probation period
- Transport, medical or meal allowance
- A day or two of work from home, if suitable
- Paid training or certification
5. Get the final offer in writing
Before you resign from another job or turn down another offer, ask for an offer or appointment letter with the salary, job title, joining date, probation period and benefits. Keep a copy.
What Not to Say or Do
- Do not lie about your current salary or another offer. Companies can check, and it ruins trust.
- Do not give personal reasons such as rent or family expenses. Talk about your skills and the job.
- Do not compare yourself with a friend’s salary in another company.
- Do not give an ultimatum unless you are truly ready to walk away.
- Do not accept verbally and then ask for more on the first day.
Red Flags in a Job Offer
- No written offer or appointment letter.
- Asking you to pay a “security deposit”, “training fee” or “uniform fee” before you start.
- An unpaid “trial week” with no clear end or terms.
- A very high salary for a very simple job, or work that is vaguely described.
- Asking you to do the work over WhatsApp before any contract.
Read our guides on scam red flags and on staying safe from fake recruiters on LinkedIn.
Before You Get the Offer
You negotiate best when you are a strong candidate. Prepare with our interview questions and answers, keep a clean CV and a clear application letter. See this week’s private jobs roundup for current openings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the company cancel my offer if I ask for more?
It can happen, but it is uncommon when you are polite and reasonable. Ask respectfully and be ready to accept the original offer if you still want the job.
How much more should I ask for?
There is no fixed rule. Use the ranges from similar job ads and ask for an amount you can justify with your skills.
Can I negotiate for a government job?
No. Government posts follow fixed pay scales set in the advertisement.
Should I tell them my current salary?
If you are a fresher, you may not have one. If you do, be honest, and focus on what you offer for the new role.
What if they say no?
Thank them, ask about a review date or other benefits, and decide whether the offer still works for you.
Final Words
Salary negotiation is a skill, and it is easier when you prepare. Know the range, be polite, talk about your skills, ask about other benefits and always get the offer in writing. For more career tips in Pakistan, keep visiting EarnExpertHub.
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