It is always a great feeling when you receive multiple job offers when you’re on a job hunt. However, as flattering as it may be, dealing with more than one job offer can be quite a challenge.
So, here are some tips to help you negotiate multiple job offers with the utmost professionalism!
Know your desired salary range
You obviously want a good hike when switching jobs, so it's best to set a salary range. You can get an understanding of the salary offered to someone of your work level from
AmbitionBox's Salary calculator.
Now, having an estimate can help you negotiate your salary based on your skills, experience, and the value you will add to the team.
Relevant read: 5 Hacks to Get a Higher Salary Package at Any Company
However, don't put all your stakes in one jar. Consider the full responsibilities of the job position.
Ensure that the job offer is in writing
Make sure to have all the offers in black and white before gloating about bagging multiple job offers.
A written job offer not only buys you enough time but also proves to be a valid offer. You could say something like this,
"The offer sounds great. I look forward to reviewing all of the job details. Could you provide me a date by which I can expect a written offer?"
Know and list facts about each job offer
It is best to list down the factors that are appealing to you when you have multiple job offers in hand.
Surely you have a time constraint and need to arrive at a decision and your best chance is a decision making matrix.
Here's how you can create the list.
- Note down 7-10 points that YOU hold most valuable in a job.
- Assign a weightage to each factor based on its importance.
- Lastly, assign a weightage to indicate how much each recruiter is offering to you.
This will also help you to compare the offers and understand if the initial job offer is worth negotiating.
Tip: Contact the recruiter in case you need more clarity regarding the job offer.
Express enthusiasm without actually saying "Yes"
Always show enthusiasm on receiving a lucrative offer, whether or not you have other job offers lined up is irrespective. However, try not to accept on the spot if you do have other attractive job offers to consider.
Here's something you can say,
"Thank you so much for the offer. I believe this job role will be a great fit for me and amazing for my growth as well. Could you kindly let me know by when you need my final decision? Or I could let you know by Tuesday."
Tip: Most recruiters provide 3-4 days’ time for a candidate to make a final decision. So try to keep it within the same time frame unless they provide you with a specific date.
Be aware of the time limit
When you have multiple job offers, it is best to find out the time frame each recruiter is offering you to revert with an answer. This is an important question to ask your recruiter so you can look over the factors of each job offer thoroughly before arriving at a decision.
Be honest about other job offers
When you have multiple job offers you would want to line them up properly based on their deadlines. However, it is normal to need a bit more time to arrive at a decision without any regrets. So here's what you can say,
" Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity. I know you want my response by Tuesday, but could I ask for a few more days to give you an answer?
I have another company that's interested in me and I would like to hear them out, although I am more inclined towards accepting your offer.
I'd feel much more comfortable if I could ask for a few more days to review both offers. Would it be possible if I give you my final answer by Friday?"
Ensure complete honesty and live up to your words. For example, if you say you'll provide your final answer by Friday, then abide by it. Otherwise, your recruiter will just start rethinking their choice.
Accept/Decline the job offer professionally
Once you arrive at a decision, you either accept or decline a job offer. Now, accepting an offer letter is comparatively simpler than rejecting one.
Rejecting a job offer letter is normal but you need to be professional throughout. You should communicate your decision to turn down the offer via email and/ telephone. In addition, provide a valid reason for rejecting the offer and thank them for their time.
Relevant read: How to reject a job offer
Tip: When you accept one offer make sure to let the other recruiters know of the decision as well.
Respect NDA's
A final thing to be careful of is Non-disclosure agreements (NDA). Some companies might make you sign them in different stages of the interview process, ensure to read and understand them thoroughly and keep records of the same.
Respect the NDA terms and conditions as it reflects your sincerity in a positive light.
To conclude, follow these tips to know how to negotiate multiple job offers. Ensure that you convey your decision via a formal email and always leave on a positive note.
