Writing a cover letter is already an important part of the job hunt, but mentioning your desired salary can make it even trickier. If you’re wondering how to write a cover letter with salary requirements without hurting your chances of landing the job, it’s all about striking the right balance and choosing your words carefully.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to handle salary expectations in your cover letter—from deciding if you should mention them at all to writing a proper one.
Searching for a new role? Check out open jobs on The Muse and find the perfect fit for you »
Is it necessary to mention salary in your letter?
The truth is, it depends on the situation. Some job postings specifically ask for salary requirements, while others leave it up to the applicant's discretion.
In many cases, omitting salary requirements can work in your favor, allowing you to focus on your qualifications and fit for the role. However, if a job listing explicitly requests this information, failing to include it could reflect poorly on your attention to detail.
It's also important to consider the job market and your industry. In highly competitive fields, being upfront about your salary expectations can show confidence and transparency, while in other sectors, it might be better to wait until later in the hiring process to discuss compensation. The key is to tailor your approach based on the specific job and company you’re applying to.
How to mention salary in a cover letter
Experts agree that mentioning salary requirements in a cover letter should be approached with caution. “Salary questions are designed to ‘screen out’ rather than ‘screen in’ candidates,” says Alisa Cohen, Career Coach at Close Cohen Career Consulting. This means that revealing your salary expectations too soon could lead to your elimination from the candidate pool if your figures don’t align with the employer’s budget.
“It could result in either being overlooked for the position or receiving a lower-than-expected offer,” says Tiago Pita, Brand Director and Recruiter at Whole Food Earth.
You might want to leave out salary requirements in a cover letter when you don’t have enough information about the role and its compensation structure to provide a well-informed figure. “If the job posting indicates that salary discussions will occur later in the hiring process, it’s often best to focus the cover letter on qualifications and enthusiasm for the role,” Pita says.
By doing so, you keep the door open for a more informed discussion about compensation later in the hiring process, once the employer has seen your potential and you have a clearer understanding of the role.
When should you include salary requirements?
If the application asks for salary requirements, you should comply—but do so strategically (below, you’ll find tips on how to handle this).
If the application does not ask for them, “it’s typically in your best interest to defer compensation conversations to the latest stage possible,” Cohen says. “You have the most leverage when you are at the offer stage.”
By waiting until later in the process, you allow yourself time to demonstrate your value to the employer, which can strengthen your position during salary negotiations.
How do you negotiate salary in a cover letter?
It’s essential to approach this topic with tact, as you don’t want to come across as overly aggressive or rigid. Below are some tips and strategies for effectively incorporating salary negotiation into your cover letter.
1. Do your research
Base your expectations on solid research. Industry standards, geographic location, past salaries, and your experience level are all factors that should be taken into consideration. One effective strategy is to provide a range rather than a specific number, giving you some flexibility and room for negotiation.
Cohen suggests using language like, “My research indicates that compensation for this type of position falls in the range of $XX - $XX. I look forward to learning more about the position and understanding if that is consistent with your range.” This approach shows you’ve done your homework and know what you’re looking for in a job position.
2. Explain your reasoning
This could be based on your research of industry standards, your level of experience, or the cost of living in the job's location. For example: “My salary expectation is based on industry research and my professional experience in similar roles, as well as the cost of living in [City].”
3. Use diplomatic and flexible language
The way you phrase your salary expectations can significantly impact how they are received. Pita emphasizes the importance of using language that shows flexibility, with phrases such as, “Based on my experience and the industry standards, I am seeking a salary range of $X to $Y. However, I am open to discussing this further based on the total compensation package and additional benefits your company offers.”
This wording acknowledges your salary expectations while also making it clear you’re open to negotiation and that you’re willing to consider the entire compensation package, not just the salary.
4. Frame salary as part of the overall fit
Highlight your skills and experience that contribute to the company’s success. This helps keep the focus on mutual benefit rather than just on financials.
Pita suggests language like, “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and am confident that my skills align well with the needs of the position. I am seeking a salary range of $X to $Y, though I am open to negotiation based on the complete compensation package and benefits offered.” This phrasing shows enthusiasm for the role while also subtly integrating your salary expectations into the discussion.
Cover letter with salary requirements: examples
Below, you'll find cover letter examples with salary requirements for different roles. Each cover letter is tailored to the specific job while including a mention of salary expectations, demonstrating how to approach this delicate topic professionally.
But first, here’s the common structure that should be present at the beginning of all cover letter with salary requirements examples:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager's Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Example #1: Cover letter with salary requirements for Administrative Assistant
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the Administrative Assistant position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With over five years of experience in administrative support roles, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team and help streamline office operations.
In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I managed a variety of administrative tasks, including scheduling, correspondence, and file management, all while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism. My organizational skills and attention to detail have consistently been recognized by my supervisors, and I am eager to bring this same level of dedication to [Company Name].
For this position, I would like to express that my salary expectations are between $[number] and $[number]. These figures are aligned with the industry average for this role and are also based on my experience, but I am open to negotiation depending on the additional benefits your organization provides to ensure a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team's success.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example #2: Cover letter with salary requirements for Marketing Coordinator
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at [Company Name], as listed on [where you found the job posting]. With a background in digital marketing and a strong track record of driving brand engagement, I am confident that I can help elevate your marketing efforts and contribute to your company’s growth.
At [Previous Company Name], I successfully managed social media campaigns that resulted in an X% increase in follower engagement and a Y% growth in lead generation. My experience in content creation, SEO, and analytics has equipped me with the skills needed to execute and optimize marketing strategies effectively.
I would like to request a salary within the range of $[number] to $[number] per year. My salary expectations reflect my education in marketing, along with [number] years of experience in the industry and my in-depth knowledge of digital marketing strategies, content creation, and campaign management. However, given the growth opportunities and additional benefits your organization offers, I am open to negotiating the salary.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to contributing to your team and discussing how my background aligns with your needs.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example #3: Cover letter with salary requirements for Project Manager
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the Project Manager position at [Company Name]. With over seven years of experience managing cross-functional teams and delivering projects on time and within budget, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills to your organization.
At [Previous Company Name], I led a team of [number of people in the team] in the successful implementation of a $X million project, improving efficiency by Y% and reducing costs by Z%. My proven track record of leading diverse teams and successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget makes me a strong fit for this role. I excel in coordinating cross-functional efforts, anticipating challenges, and driving projects to completion with a strategic focus on achieving business goals.
I am seeking a salary within the range of $[number] to $[number] per year. My salary expectations are based on my extensive experience in project management, including [number] years in the industry, and my ability to consistently deliver high-impact results. However, I am open to negotiation to find a package that reflects both the role and my qualifications, considering the growth opportunities and additional benefits your organization offers.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to [Company Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover letter with salary requirements: template
Not quite there yet? Here's a template to make everything easier for you:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager's Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a background in [relevant field or industry], I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team and support the company's goals.
In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I [briefly describe a key achievement or responsibility]. My experience has equipped me with [specific skills or knowledge related to the job], which I am eager to bring to [Company Name].
Regarding compensation, based on my experience and industry standards, I am seeking a salary in the range of $[number] to $[number] per year. I believe this range reflects my qualifications and the value I can bring to your organization. However, I am open to negotiation to find a package that reflects both the role and my qualifications, considering the growth opportunities and additional benefits your organization offers.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with your needs and how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Key takeaways
Including salary requirements in a cover letter can be a delicate balancing act. It’s essential to approach this topic with care to avoid potential pitfalls while ensuring clarity for both you and the employer.
It’s often best to include salary expectations only when explicitly requested or when you feel confident about the compensation range based on your experience and industry standards.
Ensure your salary expectations align with the role’s requirements and the value you bring to the table. If necessary, express your openness to negotiation, highlighting your flexibility and enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Remember, a well-crafted cover letter not only addresses salary expectations but also showcases your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. By combining a clear, professionally presented salary range with a strong emphasis on your skills and achievements, you can create a compelling case for why you’re the right fit for the job.