If you’ve landed a job offer, congratulations! One thing you might be considering is asking for a sign-on bonus. Negotiating your compensation is a key part of accepting a new role, and knowing how to do it politely and professionally is important. This guide will walk you through how to ask for a sign-on bonus, with a sample email template to help you get started.
Why Ask for a Sign-on Bonus?
Asking for a sign-on bonus can be a smart move, especially when you’re changing jobs. Think of it as a little extra “thank you” for choosing their company.
- It can help offset things like:
- Moving expenses.
- Lost income from your previous job (if you had one).
- Training or certifications you might need.
- It shows you’re confident in your value and your ability to contribute.
- Sometimes, a sign-on bonus can make a significant difference in your overall compensation package, especially if the base salary is fixed.
Email Example: Initial Inquiry After Receiving an Offer
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I am very excited about the opportunity and the prospect of joining your team.
I am very interested in the offer. However, before I formally accept, I was wondering if the company offers sign-on bonuses for this role. I would be grateful if you would consider a sign-on bonus of $[Amount] to help offset relocation expenses.
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Following Up After No Initial Response
Subject: Re: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on my previous email regarding the job offer for the [Job Title] position. I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity and excited to join the team at [Company Name].
As mentioned previously, I was inquiring about the possibility of a sign-on bonus. I would appreciate it if you could consider a sign-on bonus of $[Amount] to help with relocation expenses.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Asking After Discussing Salary
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you for discussing the job offer and salary details with me yesterday. I appreciate the time you took to explain the compensation package. I am very excited about the prospect of joining your team.
In addition to the salary discussed, I was hoping you might consider offering a sign-on bonus. I would like to request a sign-on bonus of $[Amount]. This would help me with [briefly explain your reason, e.g., relocation costs, covering expenses during the transition, etc. ]
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: If You Have Another Offer
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you again for offering me the position of [Job Title]. I’m very impressed with [Company Name] and excited about this opportunity. I am in the process of reviewing offers from other companies.
I’ve received another offer, and to make my decision, I’d like to ask if a sign-on bonus is possible. A sign-on bonus of $[Amount] would greatly help me make my decision. [If you have a specific need, include it here, like, “as I’m relocating from out of state.”]
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: After Receiving a Revised Offer
Subject: Re: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you for the revised offer. I appreciate you taking the time to accommodate my previous requests. I am very excited about the prospect of joining your team.
I am very happy with the base salary and benefits package. As I will be incurring relocation costs, I wanted to ask about the possibility of a sign-on bonus. Even a sign-on bonus of $[Amount] would greatly assist me.
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Expressing Gratitude and Formally Accepting
Subject: Job Offer - [Your Name] - [Job Title] - Accepted
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
Thank you so much for the job offer for the [Job Title] position. I am pleased to accept the offer.
I appreciate you taking the time to consider my request for a sign-on bonus. I am very much looking forward to joining the team at [Company Name]. I would like to formally accept the offer including the sign-on bonus of $[Amount].
I am available to start on [Start Date]. Please let me know if you require any further information from me.
Thank you again for this exciting opportunity!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Asking for a sign-on bonus is a normal part of the job negotiation process. Use these email examples as a starting point. Remember to be polite, professional, and clear about your needs. Good luck, and happy job hunting!