| I've always hated the simplistic "Just negotiate, bro!" advice. I wish it came with more concrete tactics to use that work. I've never in my 20+ year career asked for more money from an employer and got it--no matter how many documents and facts I came in with. Here's how it goes with existing companies: [Me] Hi, I'd like a raise. [Co] Nope. [Me] OK, here are examples of the value I'm providing and how it's increased over time. [Co] Your current salary accounts for this. [Me] Other companies offer 20% more and I'm only asking for 10%. [Co] ... [Me] OK, I have an offer from the other company. Last chance. [Co] Well... Bye? Here's how it goes as a new hire: [Co] Here is your offer letter with your salary, bonus, and equity. (it's 0.2% more than my current TC) [Me] <gulp> I think the market rate should be much higher, based on my experience and skills. [Co] We don't agree. [Me] Can you be flexible with the equity? [Co] No. [Me] Can you offer a signing bonus? [Co] No. [Me] Can you be flexible with the base pay? [Co] LOL No. [Me] What about hours, time off flexibility, and so on... [Co] Look, do you want the job or not? There's a line forming behind you, my dude. I hate that a skill (negotiation) that is unrelated to my actual job has to be one of the primary drivers of my compensation. |
> I have an offer from the other company
So take it!
> Can you be flexible with the base pay?
A better way is to make a counter-offer. May I recommend the book "Never Split The Difference" which has a lot of good information about negotiating. Remember your most important power is being able to walk away.