How to handle the verbal offer — and make your counteroffer with confidence

How you respond to a verbal offer can shape your compensation for years to come. Taking a moment to pause, gather information and negotiate thoughtfully helps you start stronger and build long-term financial momentum.

You’ve worked hard, crushed the interviews and now the recruiter calls: “We’d like to extend you an offer.”

This is an exciting moment — and also a critical one. How you respond in these next steps can shape not just your starting salary, but the trajectory of your compensation for years to come.

Here’s how to approach it with clarity and confidence.

Receiving the verbal offer

Pause before answering. Take a deep breath. Don’t rush to respond — especially if the numbers surprise you.

Show gratitude and excitement. Thank them sincerely, express enthusiasm about the team and opportunity and acknowledge the support you’ve received through the process.

Take notes (and ask for the details in writing). Recruiters usually share the base, bonus, equity and sometimes start date. Write it down and ask them to follow up with the details by email.

Buy yourself time. No matter how good (or not-so-good) the offer sounds, don’t give an answer on the spot. Instead, let them know you’ll review and get back to them. If you know this is your top choice, a day or two is enough. If you’re still deciding, ask for a few days (not more than a week).

Preparing your counteroffer

This is where most people get nervous — but remember: recruiters expect you to negotiate. In fact, many have a “Plan A” (low end) and “Plan B” (maximum) offer ready. They want you to ask. This is part of their everyday work.

Set your intention. Your goal is not only to maximize compensation but also to practice negotiation skills and strengthen the relationship with your future colleagues.

Do your homework. Review market data (Levels.fyi, LinkedIn, Glassdoor), ask your network and consider your upcoming bonuses or RSUs. Know your minimum acceptable base and your target total compensation.

Batch your requests. Whether salary, equity or start date, organize your asks in one email or one call. Trickling in multiple requests weakens your position.

Be specific but flexible. If the offer is lower than expected, ask for about 15–20% more. If it’s already strong, aim for about 5–10% more.

Phrase it as: “I’m really excited about this opportunity. If you can get the offer to $X, I’d be ready and excited to sign.”

Lead with excitement, close with alignment. Always reinforce that you’re enthusiastic about the company and confident in your fit and ability to make a big impact. This keeps the tone collaborative, not confrontational.

Why this matters

Even a small increase has compounding power. A $5K bump, grown at 5% annually, can add up to $750K over a career.

Negotiation isn’t about being personal or difficult. It’s about ensuring you’re valued for your skills, experience and impact.

Handled with grace, it’s a win-win. The company gets a great leader and you start with a stronger foundation.

One thoughtful counteroffer can change your financial trajectory for years. So take a breath, celebrate how far you’ve come and make the ask with confidence.