Weekly Newsletter Vol. 126 - January 28, 2026

Generating your Lead Story…

A 5-Step Counteroffer Framework That’s Helped My Clients Secure $5K–$50K More

Negotiation is one of the most uncomfortable parts of the job search process. Even strong performers freeze when it comes time to respond to an offer worried they’ll say the wrong thing, offend someone, or lose the opportunity entirely.

Over the years, I’ve helped clients negotiate anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000+ more using a simple, repeatable structure. Not scripts. Not tricks. Just clear communication.

Here’s the framework I use and why it works.

1. Confirm your interest and express gratitude

Before you talk numbers, you need to anchor the conversation emotionally.

This step reassures the company that:

• You’re excited about the role

• You’re not negotiating out of ego

• You’re approaching the conversation professionally

Example: “I’m really excited about the opportunity to join the team, and I appreciate the offer. The role and the problems you’re solving align closely with my background.”

This matters more than people realize. Negotiations often go sideways when the employer feels uncertainty about your commitment.

2. Reframe their pain points as goals

Companies don’t hire resumes. They hire to solve problems.

This step shows you understand why the role exists and reframes their challenges as outcomes you can help deliver.

Example: “From our conversations, it sounds like the top priorities for this role are improving time-to-market, stabilizing the team, and building more predictable results.”

You’re subtly reminding them that the offer isn’t abstract—it’s tied to real business needs.

3. Reiterate your experience fixing those pain points

This is where confidence replaces discomfort, because you’re no longer “asking for more money” you’re explaining your value.

Example: “In my last role, I led similar initiatives and reduced turnaround time by 30%, while also mentoring two team members into leadership roles. That’s the same impact I’m confident I can make here.”

Facts > feelings. Specific outcomes > generic claims.

4. Make the ask (clearly and calmly)

This is where most people struggle but clarity is your advantage.

State your ask directly, without over-explaining or apologizing.

Example: “Based on the scope of the role, the expectations we discussed, and market data for similar positions, I was hoping we could explore a base salary closer to $X.”

No rambling. No justifications stacked on top of each other. Just a clear request grounded in logic.

5. Close confidently (top performers do this)

After you make the ask stop talking.

Top candidates don’t rush to fill silence. They give the other side space to respond.

Example: “I’d love to hear your thoughts.”

That pause signals confidence and professionalism. It also puts the next move on them.

Pro Tip: Depersonalize the negotiation

One of the simplest but most effective shifts you can make is removing the individual from the equation.

Avoid this:

“Would you be able to offer $X?”

Try this instead:

“Would [Company] be able to offer $X?”

This reframes the conversation so the recruiter or hiring manager isn’t personally “granting” or “denying” your request. The company becomes the decision-maker.

It lowers tension and increases collaboration. Negotiation isn’t about tricking anyone. It’s about communicating clearly, professionally, and respectfully. This framework isn’t a script, it’s a guide. Adapt the language so it sounds like you.

If you’ve never negotiated before, structure helps. It gives you something to lean on when nerves kick in. Always do your research and consider your personal and financial situation. The market sets the range—but how you communicate often determines where you land within it.

If this helps even a few people head into 2026 with stronger offers and more confidence, it’s done its job.

Post credit to Sam Struan. Check out the original thoughts at this link: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7419041391898537984/

You can’t make this stuff up

_{(*Disclaimer: these are real experiences provided by RME's community of job seekers and hiring managers)}

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