Compare the full offer before negotiating salary.

Ask for the written breakdown

• Monthly and annual basic or gross salary
• Employer and employee retirement contributions
• Medical-aid contribution
• Guaranteed and performance-linked bonuses
• Travel, phone, data or remote-work allowances
• Leave, working pattern, probation and notice period

Professional counter-offer email

Subject: Offer discussion — [Role title]

Dear [Name]

Thank you for the offer for the [role] position. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity and the work we discussed.

After reviewing the responsibilities and the full package, could we discuss a [monthly gross / annual CTC] figure of R[amount]? This reflects [brief, truthful evidence: relevant experience, scarce skill or market evidence]. I would also appreciate confirmation of [one package item].

I remain very interested and would be happy to discuss the package.

Kind regards
[Name]

Compare offers on the same basis

Do not compare one employer’s annual CTC with another employer’s monthly cash salary. Convert both to the same period, list employer-paid benefits separately, and estimate work-related costs such as transport, data and parking. Use written terms rather than verbal promises.

Prepare before the offer

Use role adverts and reputable salary information for your occupation, level and city. During interviews, clarify the basis of any figure before answering. Review the interview questions guide for salary-expectation preparation.

Questions people ask

What does CTC mean?

Cost to company is the employer’s total cost and may include cash salary, retirement contributions, medical aid, allowances and other benefits. Ask for a written breakdown.

Should I negotiate monthly or annual salary?

Use the same basis as the written offer and clarify whether the figure is monthly gross, annual basic pay or annual CTC.

Can government salaries be negotiated?

Many public-service posts advertise a fixed salary level or package. Check the advert and applicable rules before assuming the cash amount is flexible.

Should I share my current salary?

Answer truthfully where disclosure is lawful and necessary, but keep the discussion focused on the role, market evidence and the full proposed package.

More free guides

Z83 form guide · How to write a CV · Free CV template · Cover letter · Interview questions · Learnerships · Salary and offers · Job-scam checks · CV vs job ad review

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