The moment that decides your counter
Sending a counter offer by email is the easy part. The real test comes when the recruiter calls: "Thanks for getting back to us — I understand you wanted to discuss the offer?" What you say in the next two minutes decides whether your counter holds.
A counter offer that holds up
- Lead with enthusiasm, then the number. "I'm really excited about the role. Based on the market data for this job in my state, I'm asking for a base of $X."
- Use one number, not a range. A range invites them to pick the bottom.
- Justify with market data and impact, not with personal needs like rent or childcare.
- Let silence work. After you say your number, stop. Don't lower it to fill the pause.
- Trade instead of dropping. If base is truly fixed, ask about a sign-on bonus, an earlier pay review, extra PTO or remote days — and get it in writing.
Typical push-back and how to answer
| They say | You can say |
|---|---|
| "That's above our budget for this role." | "I understand. What flexibility do you have in the overall package?" |
| "This is our best and final offer." | "Thank you for being clear. Could we look at a sign-on bonus or an earlier review instead?" |
| "Do you have another offer?" | Answer honestly. Never invent one — the debrief flags it. |
How the practice works
Enter the offer and your target. An AI recruiter with a hidden budget calls you back and pushes back like a real one. After the call you get your score and the one sentence that cost you the most, with a better phrasing. With a pass you see how high they could have gone, plus a script and an email built from your own numbers.
Practice it twice, and the real call will feel familiar.