Negotiating for a Better Offer
At the end of your consideration of the offer, you need to make a decision. There are four possible decisions:
1. No way, not even if they doubled the salary.
2. I can do better than this.
3. I want this job, but only if they can improve the offer.
4. This is perfect; I want it.
If you decide Number 1 or Number 2, you need to call or write immediately and thank them for the offer, but say you want to continue looking for a position that more closely matches your career goals. If you would consider another position at this company, let them know that and tell them you would like to keep in touch or hear about future openings.
If your decision is Number 4, you’ve nothing left to do but call or write the company and give your enthusiastic acceptance. They may require a signed form upon acceptance or your acceptance letter may serve as the required form. If there is an employment contract to be signed or other paperwork, they will let you know. If they ask you to sign an employment contract, be sure to take a day and pass it by an attorney who specializes in employment law to ensure there are no problems. They may also ask you to sign a non-compete agreement. You may also want a lawyer to look at this.
