"
John, I am really excited that you all have chosen me for this
position, and I am very confident that you've made the right
decision. For the past few days I've been thinking about the
company and the job, and I must tell you ...I am really wanting to
work for you guys"
I would like a
chance to talk to my family (think about it) and I may have a few
questions."
The key at
this point is don't go negative...or try to raise the offer
first. Rather let them know you want the job.
Before ending
the conversation, be sure to agree on when and how you will get back
to them. Don't make it a long time...few hours should work.
"John, I
know I probably shouldn't tell you this upfront, but I want you to
know I am very excited about the possibility of joining your
company. I've thought about the opportunity and the offer and
have got a couple of questions that I would like to ask. I am
hopeful that there might be some latitude in the offer and that we can
work this out quickly."
Then state
your issues. Try to pose them as questions...leaving room for
movement. Try to avoid rigid ness or corners that you can't get
out of. An example might be
"John, I
guess my largest concern is the base. I know that in the long
term this is the right opportunity for me. What I am struggling
with is how to make it work for me in the short term. I
was hoping the base could have been a little higher"
As you go
through your questions, you may want to use phrases like
"Is there
anyway that....."
"Would
you all ever consider....."
"I think
I would be wrong not to ask about....."
(use
this on a low priority wish list item) By the way you ought to
expect some No's...don't plan on getting everything you want.
Sometimes the
individual you are negotiating can make the decisions on the spot,
other times they may have to get approval. But, as the
conversation is ending, remember this will be likely your last chance
to negotiate. Don't plan on another.
