How do you leverage a job offer against your current employer?

Start the discussion by talking about what you like about your current job. Then gently but firmly bring up the counteroffer and its benefits, and ask whether your existing employer can offer you any incentives to stay. No matter what, don’t resort to threats, anger, or bullying.

Can I leave a new job if I get a better offer?

If the offer includes a higher salary than what you can hope to make at your new job, it’s a valid reason to leave. More advancement opportunities: Just as important as a higher salary is the opportunity to grow with a company.

Should you negotiate a higher salary if you’re currently happy?

Salary negotiations can be a tricky game to play. If you’re currently very happy in your job, but an offer finds its way into your lap (say, through a headhunter reaching out, or a previous employer trying to win you back with an offer you can’t refuse), should you leverage this offer to negotiate a higher salary?

What happens if you don’t negotiate a job offer?

Not negotiating the job offer puts you at a disadvantage for the duration of your career in a new company. There’s a snowball effect because your performance raises and after-promotion salary are all affected by what you accept.

What happens when an employer extends a job offer?

When an employer extends a job offer, they’ll usually present you with a compensation and benefits package verbally or in writing with a proposed salary. If you don’t feel the pay aligns with your education, career level, skill set and experience, you may choose to negotiate for more money.

Should you accept a counter offer on a job offer?

If you’re job seeking, and you want to leave for reasons beyond salary, then accepting any counter-offers won’t be worth your time as you’ll remain unhappy. However, if the salary is your main point of contention, then leveraging an external offer might not be a terrible move.