"Freshers can't negotiate" is half-true. Know which half you're in.
Where negotiation is dead vs alive
- Fixed (don't try): TCS/Infosys/Wipro/Cognizant batch offers — packages are policy. Negotiating reads as naive
- Alive: startups, small product companies, agencies — bands exist ("₹4–7 LPA" means the first number is the anchor, not the limit)
The one script you need
After the offer (never before): "Thank you — I'm excited about the role. Based on my [projects/internship/competing offer], I was expecting something closer to ₹X. Is there flexibility?" Then silence — let them respond. Worst case is no; offers are never revoked for one polite ask.
Leverage that actually works for freshers
- A competing offer (even a lower one proves market interest)
- Deployed projects with users, internship experience, niche skills they need
- Asking ₹1–2 LPA above their number — not ₹10
When base is truly fixed, negotiate the rest
- Joining bonus (easiest yes — one-time cost for them)
- Earlier review cycle (6 months vs 12), WFH days, joining date
Know the market first
Check our salary guide + AmbitionBox for the company's actual fresher band — negotiating without data is guessing aloud.
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