When candidates receive a lowball job offer, their first instinct is often to walk away. It can feel offensive, discouraging, or like a signal that the employer doesn’t truly value you.
But walking away without negotiating is almost always a missed opportunity. With the right approach, you can often turn a disappointing offer into something much stronger — and leave the door open for a better deal.
I’ve built a 10-step framework that has boosted so-called “non-starter” job offers by over 40%. Here’s how it works — and why you should always negotiate.
1. Open with Gratitude and Positivity
Thank the employer for the offer. Express genuine enthusiasm about the role and the company.
Example: “Thank you for the offer. I’m so excited about this role and Company XYZ.”
2. Express That the Offer Doesn’t Meet Expectations
Be honest and clear, without being confrontational.
Example: “To be honest, I’m surprised by the compensation offered.”
3. State the Top Range of Your Market Value
Communicate the number you would be thrilled to accept — not just the lowest you’d tolerate.
Example: “I was expecting closer to $X.”
4. Provide a Brief Rationale
Support your number with context: current compensation, role scope, market data, or other relevant benchmarks.
Example: “I based this on [choose: my current compensation, the role’s scope, market data, etc.].”
5. Stop Talking
Silence is powerful in negotiations. Let the recruiter respond; they’ll likely mention salary bands, budget, or internal processes.
6. Reaffirm Your Enthusiasm
Keep the tone positive and forward-looking.
Example: “I’m still really excited about this opportunity.”
7. State Your Minimum Acceptable Salary
Be clear and confident about the minimum number you’d accept.
Example: “If we can get to $X, I’d be ready to accept today.”
8. Stop Talking (Again)
Pause and let the recruiter carry the conversation forward.
9. Cue Escalation
Acknowledge that they may need to take the discussion to their internal team.
Example: “I understand that you’ll need to discuss this internally.”
10. End on a Positive, Optimistic Note
Close with appreciation and optimism.
Example: “I really appreciate you taking the time to explore this, and I’m hopeful we can make it work.”
Remember: If you’ve reached the offer stage, you’ve already invested significant time, energy, and effort — and so has the employer. Negotiation isn’t about being difficult or demanding; it’s about ensuring both sides arrive at an agreement that feels fair and aligned. With the right strategy, even a lowball offer can often be reshaped into a package that reflects your true market value.
