Negotiating Your First Offer Without Losing It
Almost nobody withdraws an offer over a polite, reasoned counter. Here is the script, what to ask for besides money, and when not to push.
The fear is that asking for more makes the offer disappear. In practice that is rare, and companies frequently expect a counter. The version that goes wrong is aggressive, vague, or unjustified — not the act of asking.
Before you respond at all
Say thank you and buy time. "Thank you, I am really pleased. Could you send the details in writing? I would like to read it properly and come back to you within two days."
Never accept on the call. Enthusiasm on the phone is fine; commitment is not. Two days is a normal, professional ask.
Then check the whole offer, not just the number
- Gross or net, and in which currency
- Payment method and date each month
- Employee or contractor, and who covers what tax
- Paid time off, and whether public holidays are yours or theirs
- Required hours and overlap window, written down
- Equipment: provided, reimbursed, or your problem
- Notice period both ways
- When the rate is next reviewed
Several of these are worth more than a small salary increase, and they are easier to win.
The counter script
Thank you for this — I have read it properly and I would like to accept.
One thing I would like to discuss is the base. Based on what I have seen for this role and the [specific experience you bring], I was expecting closer to [your number]. Is there room to move towards that?
If the base is fixed, I would be glad to look at [an earlier review date / additional leave / an equipment budget] instead. Either way I am keen to get started.
Why that works
It opens with acceptance, so the offer is never at risk. It gives a reason rather than just a wish. It names a specific number rather than "more". And it offers an alternative, so they have a way to say yes even if the salary line is genuinely fixed.
What to ask for when money will not move
- A salary review at six months rather than twelve, with written criteria
- Extra paid leave days
- A one-off equipment or internet budget
- A better title, which raises what you can ask for at the next role
- A written training or conference allowance
When not to push
If they have already told you the band and the offer is at the top of it. If you have been out of work for a long time and this changes your situation now. If it is your first international role and the number is fair — the second role is where the real jump happens, and it is much easier to reach from inside.
Sometimes the correct move is to take a fair offer quickly and gracefully.
The one rule
Never accept verbally and then try to renegotiate. Never counter on something you have already agreed. Ask once, clearly, before you accept — then commit properly.
Live negotiation preparation with your actual offer in front of us is part of the Inner Circle. See how it works.