When to use it
Use it when the employer says the base salary can't move. Ask about other parts of the package, like a signing bonus, extra time off, a title, remote days or a review date. These sometimes have more flexibility than base pay.
Example
Recruiter: “The base is fixed at this level.”
You: “If base salary is fixed, could we look at a signing bonus or an extra week off?”
Recruiter: “I can ask about the bonus.”
In an email or Slack message
By email: “I understand the base is fixed. Could we explore a signing bonus or an additional week of vacation to close the gap?” Pick the one or two that matter most to you.