What is an acceptable counter offer?

Asked by: Natasha Howe  |  Last update: June 7, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (36 votes)

For most entry-level positions, the lower start of the range will be the most appropriate pay bracket. If the salary offered is within the low range for similar positions, consider an initial counteroffer 10-20% higher, and if the salary offered is within the average range, consider a counteroffer 5-7% higher.

Is a 20% counter offer too much?

A good range for a counter is between 10% and 20% above their initial offer.

What is a valid counter offer?

A counteroffer functions as both a rejection of an offer to enter into a contract, as well as a new offer that materially changes the terms of the original offer. Because a counteroffer serves as a rejection, it completely voids the original offer. Thus, the original offer can no longer be accepted.

What is the #1 rule of salary negotiation?

In the intricate dance of career progression, salary negotiation stands as a pivotal moment, shaping your financial future and professional trajectory. Amidst the myriad of advice circulating the web, one rule emerges as the lodestar guiding successful negotiations: Know Your Worth and Articulate It Confidently.

How do you politely counter an offer?

You can use the following steps as guidance when countering a job offer to negotiate your compensation:
  1. Ask for time to make your decision. ...
  2. Conduct research on industry compensation. ...
  3. Assess your qualifications and experience. ...
  4. Review and evaluate the initial offer. ...
  5. Determine your counteroffer value. ...
  6. Submit your counteroffer.

Times When You SHOULD Accept a Counter Offer - Should You Take a Counter Offer

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Can you lose a job offer by negotiating salary?

“First, understand that companies expect you to negotiate. If you're respectful, realistic, and strategic when negotiating salary, there is little risk that you'll lose the job offer entirely,” said Cole.

What salary should I ask for?

Here's a three-part question to help you determine your optimal asking salary: Considering your skills, experience and location, what is the lowest salary you would accept? We are assuming that the job is the right opportunity, helps you advance toward long-term goals and is with a desirable company.

What not to say in salary negotiation?

"Sorry" According to Doody, "negotiating is uncomfortable, and our natural tendency is to try to smooth the edges on a difficult conversation. Saying sorry could signal to the recruiter or hiring manager that you might be willing to back down, and that could be expensive. Don't apologize for negotiating."

How much can you realistically negotiate salary?

Start with a figure that's no more than 10-20% above their initial offer. Remember, you're applying for entry level, and you shouldn't expect something on the higher range. Consider negotiating lower if 10-20% places you above the average.

How do I negotiate salary if I already have an offer?

How to negotiate salary for multiple job offers
  1. Know the salary range you're looking for. ...
  2. Make sure you have a written job offer. ...
  3. Know the facts about each job offer. ...
  4. Express your enthusiasm. ...
  5. Know how much time you have. ...
  6. Be honest and line up your timeframes. ...
  7. Compare the job offers. ...
  8. Try to get a second offer.

What is the mirror rule?

In contract law , the “mirror image rule” is a doctrine stipulating that any acceptance of an offer is deemed to be an unconditional assent to the terms of the offer exactly as it is, without any changes or modifications .

What is a general offer?

A general offer is one that is made to the public at large. It is not made any specified parties. So any member of the public can accept the offer and be entitled to the rewards/consideration.

What is an example of a counter offer?

How to Use counteroffer in a Sentence
  • He turned down the deal and came back with a counteroffer asking for more money.
  • The village reached out to Agape with a counteroffer in late March. ...
  • That's the size of the GOP's original counteroffer to Biden. ...
  • So the companies have about a month to give us a counteroffer.

What is a good salary range to give?

When you write your salary requirements, you should include a range and not a specific sum. For instance, if you would like to make $35,000, then you should state that your salary requirements are between $30,000 and $40,000, rather than $35,000. This way, there is an opportunity to negotiate.

Do employers expect you to negotiate salary?

In fact, because they expect job candidates to negotiate salary, employers typically offer somewhat less than they are willing to pay. Here are some dos and don'ts from negotiation experts on how to negotiate a higher salary after a job offer.

Why accepting a counteroffer is a big mistake?

Your loyalty will be questioned

If you accept a counteroffer from your current employer after already accepting another offer, it will likely damage your relationship with both your current and future employers.

What is a reasonable counteroffer for a job?

If the salary offered is within the low range for similar positions, consider an initial counteroffer 10-20% higher, and if the salary offered is within the average range, consider a counteroffer 5-7% higher. In addition to compensation data, you should research the cost of living for the area you'll be working in.

Should you ever accept the first salary offer?

Just as experts often advise job candidates to never accept an employer's first offer for a salary, an employer may counter your desired salary with a new number. You can choose to accept the employer's counter offer or negotiate further.

How do you politely negotiate a higher salary?

Salary negotiation tips to present your case with confidence
  1. Be familiar with industry salary trends You need to enter a salary negotiation as informed as possible. ...
  2. Build your case for a better salary Once you receive a salary offer, don't just counter with a higher number.

What is the best answer for salary negotiation?

During salary negotiations, consider various factors such as cost of living, your current pay package, and any additional employment benefits like pension, leave entitlement, and employee stock option. A recommended approach is to present your expected salary within a range rather than a fixed figure.

How to ask for a counter offer politely?

To ask for a counter offer politely, start by expressing your gratitude for the job offer and your enthusiasm about the opportunity. Then, explain your reasons for seeking a counter offer, emphasizing your qualifications and what you can bring to the organization.

Should I mention my current salary when negotiating salary?

Say that you'd rather not disclose your current salary, as you would like to have a fair negotiation based on your skills and what you have to offer the company. You can be firm and say that your salary is personal and confidential information.

How to answer what's your expected salary?

5 steps for answering salary expectation
  • Thank the interviewer.
  • Use a delaying tactic to deflect the question.
  • If the interviewer insists, provide a salary range.
  • Provide a specific number if pressed.
  • Show flexibility and openness to negotiation.

How much is too much to ask for in salary negotiation?

But the tactic has an upper limit. Their research found that asking for any range that would be more than 25% did not produce better results. Taking the Paysa survey and the Columbia Business School survey results together, it might make the most sense to consider negotiating for an increase in pay between 5-10%.

How does HR determine salary offer?

Demographic and market factors: Salaries are impacted by market and demographic factors like the availability of jobs, the number of available candidates for a particular job or the number of employees looking for the same education and skills.