How to Counter a Counter Offer Salary: Smart Tactics
So, you're facing a counter offer salary negotiation. This can feel like a chess match. It’s exciting that a company wants you, but you also want to be compensated fairly. Nearly 75% of employers are open to negotiation, however only 42% of young professionals even try according to a 2022 Fidelity Investments study. Learning how to counter a counter offer salary effectively requires research, strategy, and confidence. This guide is here to equip you with the tactics to handle these moments like a pro.
Table of Contents:
Decoding the Counter Offer: What Does it Really Mean?
Let's break this down: a company counters your counter offer. This shows they are interested in having you on their team. However, they might also be working with budget limitations.
Don't be disheartened; it doesn’t necessarily mean a dead end. It just signals the start of finding a compromise that works well for both parties.
Essential Steps Before Countering the Counter Offer
Knowing where to start when countering a counter offer is key to success. Take these crucial first steps.
1. Know Your Worth (And Back it Up with Data.)
Before entering any salary negotiation, especially when you're countering a counter offer, understand what your job title is worth in the market.
Use salary calculators like those from Glassdoor, Payscale, or Indeed and research starting salaries for comparable roles in your field and location. Another option for research is the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which provides salary data. Look at industry standards, your experience level, education, and any special skills. Have those numbers handy to confidently support your desired salary range.
2. Assess the Entire Package:
Salary isn’t everything. Consider perks, benefits, and growth opportunities when evaluating how to counter a counter offer salary.
Can you negotiate more vacation days or PTO days? What about stock options, signing bonuses, professional development funds, or flexible work arrangements? Weighing the entire compensation package, including salary and benefits, will ensure you are getting a fair deal.
3. Set Clear Priorities:
Before countering that counter offer, determine what's most important to you. Is it base salary?
Or is it remote work flexibility, a robust benefits package, professional development opportunities, or a combination of these? Having clear non-negotiables makes decision-making easier and strengthens your position during offer negotiations.
Mastering the Art of the Counter: How to Counter a Counter Offer Salary Like a Pro
This is where preparation meets action. Follow these tips to counter a counter offer confidently.
1. Timing is Everything:
While you should respond promptly, avoid immediately countering. Take some time, usually a day or two, to carefully consider your options and formulate a well-thought-out response. It’s fine to say "This all looks great; I'd just like additional verification and a bit of time to consider the offer fully."
2. The "Thank You, But…” Approach
Begin by thanking the hiring manager for their offer and reiterating your enthusiasm for the role. You can say "Thank you for coming back to me with an updated offer. I am really excited about the prospect of joining your team. After carefully considering the entire package…"
This sets a positive, appreciative tone before presenting your counter. You want to come across as collaborative, not combative.
3. Justify Your Counter With Concrete Evidence:
Clearly outline your reasoning behind the counter offer, avoid personal justifications. Instead, reference salary data that you researched earlier. Highlight any skills, accomplishments, or qualifications they’ve overlooked.
For instance: "Based on my research of similar positions at companies like X, Y, and Z, as well as the current market rate for someone with my experience and skills in [specific skill/industry], I believe a salary of [your target amount] is more aligned with my value and contributions I can bring."
4. Don’t Focus Solely on Money When Countering:
Explore negotiating non-salary elements. For example: "While I appreciate the salary offer, I’d be more comfortable if we could revisit [specific benefits/perks], such as [longer vacation time] or [stock options]. Could we explore alternatives in these areas?"
5. Emphasize Enthusiasm and Remain Professional:
Even when a company counters your counter offer, maintaining a professional and enthusiastic demeanor is critical throughout. This signals to employers that you’re serious, respectful of the process, and genuinely interested in reaching a mutually beneficial outcome.
6. Be Prepared to Walk Away:
Sadly, sometimes you just won't reach an agreement, despite your best efforts. It's crucial to recognize your own value. Know when walking away might be the better long-term choice. Data suggests up to 80% of people who accept counteroffers often end up leaving their current employers anyway. Don’t settle for less than you’re worth.
Conclusion
Navigating how to counter a counter offer salary is a process. Understanding your worth, defining your priorities, and communicating effectively can significantly boost your chances of a positive outcome. By following this guide you’re ready to advocate for yourself and secure compensation that reflects your skills, contributions, and the value you bring to the table. Remember, negotiation is a two-way street, so be prepared to give a little to get what you deserve.
