Receiving the Offer: The Beginning of the Negotiation

Congratulations! You have reached the final stage: the company has decided that you are the ideal candidate and is presenting you with a formal job offer.

This is the crucial moment where the negotiation of your working conditions begins.

How you handle this initial phase can significantly impact the final outcome.

Listen carefully to the entire offer (salary, benefits, conditions).

When you are presented with the offer (whether by phone, video conference or in person), listen carefully to all the details.

Make sure you understand not only the base salary, but also the complete package: benefits (health insurance, pension plan), vacation days, bonuses, schedule, start date and any other relevant conditions.

If necessary, take notes so you don't forget any details.

The initial reaction: Avoid accepting immediately, show slight consideration/disappointment.

Your first reaction is important and sets the stage for the negotiation. Avoid accepting the offer right away, even if it seems fantastic.

Doing so closes the door to any improvement and may give the impression that you don't value yourself enough or that you were desperate.

Instead of being overly enthusiastic, adopt a considerate attitude.

You can express appreciation for the offer, but accompany your reaction with a slight tone of disappointment or reflection (e.g., by pausing, a thoughtful "Hmm...").

This subtle reaction opens the door to negotiation without being confrontational or ungrateful.

It suggests that you expected something slightly different or that you need to evaluate it carefully. It is very rare for a company to withdraw an offer just for showing this initial attitude.

Ask for time to analyze it (Reasonable).

After hearing the full offer and showing your initial consideration, it is perfectly reasonable and professional to ask for time to analyze it carefully.

You can say something like, "I really appreciate the offer - would it be possible to have [e.g., 24-48 hours] to review it in detail and give you a definitive answer?"

This gives you room to evaluate all components, compare with your salary research and prepare your negotia