The Situation
You get an offer. It's lower than you expected. Your stomach drops. You need to respond — but you don't want to sound greedy, and you definitely don't want to lose the offer.
What Most People Do (Wrong)
They either:
- Accept immediately, leaving money on the table
- Say "I was hoping for more" without any specifics — which makes them look unprepared
- Bluff about another offer they don't actually have — which can backfire spectacularly
The Script Vault Approach
Every script in the vault follows a proven structure:
- Anchor with gratitude — Show you're excited about the role
- Introduce the gap — Cite specific data, not feelings
- Make the ask — Give an exact number with justification
- Invite collaboration — Make it a problem to solve together
📋 The Counter-Offer Script (Exact Words)
"Thank you for the offer. I'm genuinely excited about this role and the team — I can already see myself contributing to [specific project/goal they mentioned].
Based on my research of the market for this position in [city/region], and given my [X years] of experience in [specific skill], the range for this role is typically [range, e.g., $75,000–$85,000].
Would you be open to discussing a base salary of $[your number]? I believe that reflects the value I'll bring, especially with my track record in [specific achievement].
I'm flexible on the structure — whether that's base, bonus, or additional PTO. What works best on your end?"
Why This Works
- Gratitude first — You're not adversarial. You're collaborative.
- Data, not drama — You cite market research, not personal need.
- Specific number — Vague asks get vague responses. Exact numbers get exact answers.
- Flexible close — You give them options, not ultimatums.
⚠️ The #1 Mistake
Most people negotiate against themselves. They ask for a raise, then immediately say "but I'm flexible" or "whatever you think is fair." Don't do this. State your number. Pause. Let them respond. Silence is your friend.
This Is Just ONE Strategy
The complete Salary Negotiation Script Vault includes 8 complete strategies:
- ✅ The Counter-Offer Script (you just read it)
- 🎯 The "I Have Another Offer" Script
- 📈 The Raise Request Script (for your current job)
- 📧 Email Templates for every scenario
- 🛡️ Employer Tactics Guide — how to counter every pressure tactic
- 🚪 The Walk-Away Framework
- 📋 Pre-Offer Research Checklist
- 📄 Quick Reference Cheat Sheet