Getting an in-house offer is a big moment and it is tempting to accept on the spot. In most cases however, there is room for a conversation first. Employers expect candidates to ask questions about the package, and many people do.
This article covers when to negotiate and how to back up the number you ask for. It also covers what to ask for when the salary itself will not move, so that your new role starts on the best footing possible.
Before you say yes
When the offer comes in, thank the person who made it and say how pleased you are. Then ask for the full details in writing and a day or two to think it over. This is a completely normal request and no reasonable employer will hold it against you.
Use that time to read the whole package rather than just the headline salary. Check the bonus and pension contribution as well as the holiday allowance and working pattern. Ask for all relevant information on any additional package allowances, as these details often make more difference than a few thousand pounds on the base salary.
Know your number
Go into the conversation with a figure in mind, backed up by data. Check out the latest salary surveys by level, industry and region to understand what is reasonable.
Find the band that matches your experience and location, then adjust for the sector. A large financial services business will usually pay more than a smaller commercial company for the same job title. From there, settle on two numbers before you speak to anyone: the figure you would be delighted with and the lowest figure you would accept.
If you are moving from another role, factor in what you would be leaving behind. A higher salary can be cancelled out by a smaller bonus or a lower pension contribution.
When you are asked for you expectations
Many employers ask for salary expectations early in the process. Give a range rather than a single figure and base it on market data rather than on what you earn now. Make sure the bottom of the range is a number you would genuinely be happy with, because that is often where the offer lands.
If you are asked about your current salary, you can either choose to share it or to steer the conversation back to the role. Should you prefer the latter, a simple line works well: "I'd rather focus on what this role is worth. Based on the market for this level, I'm looking for between £X and £Y." Recruiters can also help you with this conversation.
How to ask for more
Start with enthusiasm. Make it clear that you want the role, so the conversation feels like two sides working towards a yes.
Then ask for one clear number and give a reason for it. The strongest reasons are market data and the specific experience you bring. For example:
"I'm really excited about this role and I'd love to make it work. Based on the salary data for this level and region plus the contract experience I'd bring from day one, I was hoping for something closer to £X. Is there any flexibility there?"
If the conversation is by phone, after you have asked, pause and let them respond. Silence can feel uncomfortable, but it gives the other person room to consider the request properly. Same applies to email - don’t over explain after sharing your number.
Look beyond base salary
In-house packages are made up of more than salary, which gives you more to work with. If the base will not move, some of these might:
Bonus. BCL Legal's 2026 survey found that 76% of in-house solicitors in London received a bonus, worth 20% of salary on average.
Pension. Employer contributions average around 8% according to BCL Legal and Florit Legal, so a higher contribution is worth asking about.
Flexibility. Florit Legal found that 70% of in-house roles are hybrid. An extra day at home or flexible hours can be worth a lot.
Development. Study support, a training budget or funding towards qualifying can shape your whole career.
A review date. If the budget really is fixed, ask for a salary review after six months, agreed in writing.
Taylor Root's latest report notes that employers are competing on flexibility and development as well as pay, so these asks are often easier to agree than a higher salary.
If the answer is no
Sometimes the budget genuinely is fixed. If that happens, ask what would need to happen for your salary to increase and when that conversation could take place. Get any commitment in writing.
Then go back to the two numbers you set at the start. If the offer meets your lowest acceptable figure and the role is right, accepting is a good decision. If it falls short, know your worth and re-commence your job search.
Get it in writing
Once you have agreed the package, ask for an updated offer letter or contract that reflects everything discussed. Check it carefully before you sign and before you hand in your notice at your current role.
Over to you…
Negotiating can feel uncomfortable, especially the first time. Preparation makes it far easier and a calm and well-reasoned request rarely damages an offer.
Start with one thing. Before your next offer conversation, write down your two numbers and the reason behind each one. Then, when the moment comes, you will be ready to ask for what you are worth.