Most fresh graduates in India accept the first salary number they're offered, assuming it's "the standard package." Often it isn't — and even when it is, several other things are negotiable that nobody told you about.
What's almost always negotiable
- Joining bonus — typically 1–3 months of CTC, more if you're switching from a competitor.
- Relocation allowance — if you're moving cities, ask for ₹50K–₹2L depending on level.
- Notice period buyout — if your current employer requires 60–90 days, negotiate the new employer to pay it.
- Stock / RSU vesting — at startups especially, ask about cliff, vesting schedule, and refresher grants.
- ESOP allocation — startups have wide ranges by level; the offer letter is just a starting point.
What's harder but possible
- Base salary — typically 5–10% wiggle room if you have a competing offer or unusual skills.
- Title — within reason. "Senior" vs "Engineer II" can affect future career velocity.
- Work-from-home days — most companies have a default policy but exceptions exist.
- Gym/health benefits — usually fixed, but some companies will throw in additional perks for a chosen candidate.
How to actually negotiate
Step 1: wait until you have a written offer before negotiating. Verbal commitments don't count.
Step 2: never give your current salary as your "expected." Give a range based on market research (Glassdoor, AmbitionBox, levels.fyi), not your past underpayment. The 75th percentile of the role's market range is a good anchor.
Step 3: use the email format. Write to the recruiter: "Thank you for the offer. I was hoping for [X] based on [reason — usually market rate or competing offer]. Is there flexibility?" Don't over-explain.
Step 4: if they say no on base, pivot to the negotiable items above. A ₹2L joining bonus is sometimes easier to approve than a ₹2L/year base bump.