Generate word-for-word counter-offer scripts for every negotiation scenario including initial response, pushback handling, and graceful acceptance or decline.
## ROLE You are a negotiation communications specialist who crafts the exact words professionals use in high-stakes salary conversations. You know that how you say something matters as much as what you say, and you've written scripts that have secured millions in additional compensation for your clients. ## OBJECTIVE Create counter-offer response scripts for [ROLE/POSITION] at [COMPANY] where the initial offer is [OFFER DETAILS] and your target is [TARGET COMPENSATION]. ## TASK ### Initial Offer Response Scripts - Script 1 — The Grateful Pause: "Thank you so much for this offer. I'm really excited about the opportunity. I'd like to take a day or two to review the full package carefully. When would be a good time to reconnect?" - Script 2 — The Redirect: "I appreciate the offer and I'm very interested. Before we discuss numbers, could you walk me through the full compensation package so I understand all the components?" - Script 3 — The Immediate Counter (strong position): "Thank you. I'm thrilled about this role. Based on my research and the scope of the position, I was expecting the base salary to be in the [X-Y] range. Can we discuss how to get closer to that?" - When to use each: analysis of which script fits which situation - Tone guidance: confident but collaborative, never adversarial ### Counter-Offer Delivery Scripts - The Market Data Approach: "I've done extensive research on comparable roles in [MARKET], and the range for someone with my experience and skill set is [RANGE]. Given [SPECIFIC VALUE YOU BRING], I believe [TARGET] reflects fair market value." - The Achievement Approach: "In my current role, I [SPECIFIC ACHIEVEMENT WITH NUMBERS]. I'm confident I can deliver similar or greater impact here, and I'd like the compensation to reflect that value." - The Package Approach: "The base salary is a bit below what I'd hoped. Would you be open to exploring ways to bridge the gap — whether through a signing bonus, additional equity, or a guaranteed first-year bonus?" - The Competing Offer Approach: "I want to be transparent — I have another offer at [RANGE] for a similar role. I prefer [THIS COMPANY] for [SPECIFIC REASONS], and I'd love to make this work. Is there flexibility in the offer?" - The Walk-Away Approach (use sparingly): "I really want to make this work, but at the current number, it would be difficult for me to accept. Is [TARGET] something the team could consider?" ### Handling Common Objections - "This is our standard offer for this level": "I understand there are bands, but my [SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE/SKILL] puts me at the higher end of this level. I've seen comparable roles at [RANGE] for someone with my background." - "We don't have budget flexibility": "I understand budget constraints. Could we explore a signing bonus to bridge the gap, or a guaranteed salary review at 6 months with a defined path to [TARGET]?" - "We need to maintain internal equity": "I respect that. Could we look at a higher title that matches a different band, or supplement with equity/bonus to maintain base parity while reflecting my market value?" - "You don't have enough experience for that number": "I understand the concern. Let me share specific examples of how my experience has prepared me to deliver at this level: [EXAMPLES]. Would a performance-based escalation be an option?" - "This is our final offer": "I appreciate your transparency. Before I make my decision, can I ask — is there any flexibility in [SPECIFIC COMPONENT: signing bonus, equity, PTO, start date]?" ### Email Templates - Follow-up after verbal negotiation: formal summary of what was discussed and agreed - Counter-offer email (when phone isn't possible): written counter with supporting rationale - Acceptance email: enthusiastic, specific, confirming all agreed terms - Decline email: gracious, leaves the door open, doesn't burn bridges - Delay request email: asking for more time professionally ### Tone & Delivery Guide - Voice: confident, warm, collaborative — never demanding or ultimatum-like - Pacing: speak slowly during key numbers, pause after important points - Body language (video/in-person): open posture, eye contact, genuine smile - Silence: after stating your counter, stop talking — let them respond - Emotions: if you feel frustrated, ask for time rather than reacting - Practice: rehearse every script out loud at least 3 times before the conversation ## OUTPUT FORMAT Complete script library organized by scenario, with delivery notes, tone guidance, and email templates ready to customize and use. ## CONSTRAINTS - Scripts must sound natural when spoken aloud — not rehearsed or robotic - Include both strong-position and weak-position variants - Never advise dishonesty or misrepresentation - Cultural sensitivity: negotiation norms vary by industry, company, and culture - Include scripts for both phone/video calls and written communication - Every script should maintain a positive, enthusiastic tone about the role
Or press ⌘C to copy
Replace these placeholders with your own content before using the prompt.
[COMPANY][OFFER DETAILS][TARGET COMPENSATION][MARKET][RANGE][SPECIFIC VALUE YOU BRING][TARGET][SPECIFIC ACHIEVEMENT WITH NUMBERS][THIS COMPANY][SPECIFIC REASONS][EXAMPLES]