You can always give in and accept the offer. With a little hesitation, however, you may be able to get way more than you had expected. Try to avoid expressing that you need the figure to be X amount higher. If pressed, defend your proposal with your work-related skills and positive benefits to the employer. You can always negotiate more than just salary.
Benefits can add thousands of dollars to the compensation package.
One of the biggest trends in today's hiring market are signing bonuses. If it makes you more comfortable, submit your initial request in writing and plan to meet later to hash out the differences. Keep in mind that the employer has chosen you from a pool of qualified applicants, so you are not as vulnerable as you think. Remember that this process should be a smooth one, and that success is determined by how well you break down the barriers that crop up when two people take sides. Lily Maestas, Counseling and Career Services, University of California.