| Negotiating in this situation is very easy: - Make what you want claer. "I really like the sound of your company and your team. The only thing that is stopping me is that the offer is far lower than I would like. I was hoping for $x/year in total compensation". If you have base, bonus, stock expectations mention that - Make it clear you are able to negotiate if you are ("I can go down to $y/year if I have a clear growth path to $x/year") and that you are not going to negotiate if not ("That is the minimum I am willing to accept") - Be prepared to walk politely. "Thank you for the interview. I enjoyed meeting the team. Ultimately, I talked to many good teams and had to choose one." You can optionally mention which one you're going to go with and mention that you are open to talking in a couple of years. Remember that this is an iterated game. If you failed to negotiate this time, you may succeed a different time. A lot of people on the Internet have poor social skills and will advise you to do certain things. Here are some common pitfalls that you can fall into: - People will tell you to be vindictive. "Actually, this is so low it's disrespectful. Never talk to me again" - People will tell you to sell yourself. "I have done X, Y, and Z. I deserve $x". That part is over. It won't matter here. - People will you to rub it in their face. "Actually, I got a better offer from A so now you know what I'm worth". Comp negotiations are very easy and directness will benefit you. A pre-existing offer raises your BATNA. You're in good shape. Remember that you always have to be prepared to choose the BATNA or it is not a BATNA. |