Don’t negotiate yet!
Ever feel stuck when a recruiter asks for your salary expectations before you’ve even seen a formal offer?
Hi there,
Ever feel stuck when a recruiter asks for your salary expectations before you’ve even seen a formal offer?
You’re not alone.
This week, we talk about how to tactfully handle that delicate dance—plus a little cameo from our new pet friend, Muji.
What kind of pets do they have in Albania?
If you’ve followed us, you know Gerta grew up in Albania—where pets weren’t exactly household staples (she has stories of stray dogs and a post–civil-war environment).
Fast-forward to today, and we’re in San Francisco, dog-sitting our friend’s pup, Muji, who literally fell asleep on us mid-conversation.
It’s amazing how quickly you can shift from nervous around dogs to letting them snore on your lap.
Learn more about growing up in Albania during the civil war and how that relates to pets on our 3rd podcast episode.
Snapshot from our third podcast episode
But enough about pets—let’s talk negotiations.
When (and When Not) to Negotiate
Rule #1:
Hold off on serious salary or benefits negotiations until you have a formal written offer.
That means an official letter or DocuSign you can actually sign—not just a verbal “We might be able to offer you around X.”
Offer details written in the body of an email don’t count either.
Why does this matter?
Once an employer extends a real offer, they’ve already picked you over other candidates.
That’s when you have the most leverage.
Learn more on our 3rd podcast episode.
“But They Keep Asking About My Salary Range…”
We know: recruiters push early and often.
They might say, “If our budget is [X range], would you accept?” or “What’s your current comp?”
Instead of naming a number or giving a hard “no,” try a friendly deflection:
“I’m excited about the role and would love to make sure it’s a great mutual fit first. We can definitely discuss compensation details when we’re closer to an official offer.”
You’re staying cooperative—and keeping your leverage.
“Why Not Just Ask Them to Put It in Writing?”
If you jump in with, “Can you put that in writing?” it can sound confrontational, almost like you don’t trust them.
Instead:
Thank them for the information.
Express enthusiasm.
You can follow up via email yourself with the same numbers they verbally shared—so there’s a written record without making them defensive.
Once they send an official offer letter with a place to sign, that’s your green light to push for a higher base salary, better benefits, or more equity.
Your Next Move
We’ve helped hundreds of people across tech, finance, and beyond land bigger, better offers—even when the market seems tough.
If you’re dealing with pushy questions from recruiters or need a game plan to boost your first offer, we’re here to help.
Book a free consultation call with us or just reply to this email. Let’s make sure you’re not giving away your leverage too soon.
Cheers to negotiating on your terms!
Gerta & Alex
Co-founders, YourNegotiations.com
P.S. For more tips and real-life scripts, grab our free worksheets at YourNegotiations.com.
P.P.S. Get $1000 for every client referral.
All you need to do is an intro.
Just reply to this email and CC your friend. We'll honor this bonus for every client that signs with us by the end of April