Recognizing and Responding to Lowball Job Offers
You Got that Job Offer Letter!
You open the letter, heart racing, and then—$15,000 less than you expected. That sting of disappointment and frustration is real, and it’s okay to feel upset. But take a deep breath—this could be your opportunity to negotiate. You’ve worked hard to get to the offer stage, and when the number falls far short of expectations, it disappoints. But don’t lose heart. There are ways to turn the situation to your advantage.
Understanding Lowball Offers
A lowball job offer is one that falls below expectations or industry standards, often reflecting the company's budget limitations or an initial negotiation tactic. The Pew Research Center reported on salary counteroffers in 2023, of workers who asked for higher pay, 28% say they were given the pay they asked for, 38% say they were given more than was originally offered but less than they had asked for, and 35% say they were only given what was first offered. Many candidates don't always get what they request, but may receive an improved offer!
Low offers are not necessarily a reflection of your skills or worth; they often serve as a starting point for negotiation, with employers expecting candidates to counteroffer. Understanding the strategy behind it can help you stay focused and empowered to negotiate that better reflects your worth.
How Prevalent are Low-ball Job Offers?
Greater job competition results in employers having the luxury of picking and choosing among candidates, sometimes
resulting in a salary offer way below the job seeker's requested amount.
How Can I Prepare to Negotiate a Higher Salary?
Think of it as doing a little homework before heading into a test—you need all the facts to make a solid case for your salary request.
Step 1 - Start with a Salary Survey
Job seekers should conduct a thorough salary review BEFORE their first job interview to help you gain control during any salary negotiations.
Identify the average salary of the job in question by state or urban area.
The best resources are ONET and BLS which use information gathered by the government from companies every year.
Step 2 - Perform Company and Job Research
Glassdoor and other social media sites are a good start to get a feel for starting salaries.
Research similar jobs in the area and see what others are offering.
Step 3 - Know Your State's Salary Transparency Laws
Many U.S. states are implementing pay transparency laws. A few primary laws are:
Inform applicants of salary ranges for open positions
Not allow employers to ask for previous salaries
Paycom has a great pay transparency site for a state-by-state resource list.
Read my blog on pay transparency for more information. Use this knowledge to help frame your counteroffer.
Step 4 - Identify Your Lowest Acceptable Salary
Determine your absolute minimum salary that will be accepted for the position in question. Take into account budget, family needs, and lifestyle.
Step 5 - Identify Your Acceptable Salary Range
Incorporate the minimum salary you will accept with what you think you are worth. It should take your salary research into account.
Know Your Worth!
If you have the information you need IN ADVANCE of any interviews you've already increased your confidence! You already know what other companies are paying. You know how low you can go if the offer is inadequate.
So, what’s your worth? Do you know it? Because when you do, you're not just playing a numbers game—you’re setting the stage for a negotiation that works in your favor.
Strategic Approaches to Salary Negotiation
Your Salary Negotiation Strategy Depends on Where You Are in the Interview Process
If the Salary Range Shared Early in the Interview Process
If the offered salary is below your minimum acceptable amount, it may be best to politely walk away. There's no shame in stepping away—it might be the right decision if the numbers just don't work.
If the salary range meets your minimum requirements:
You can confidently request a counteroffer, using your research to support your request—your numbers speak for themselves!
You might decide to skip the counteroffer if the offer already meets or exceeds your needs.
If the Salary Range is Not Shared Upfront or Late in the Interview Process
Start by asking the potential employer what range they have in mind.
If they ask for your salary expectations, you’ve been put at a disadvantage. Use your research to request a salary range, rather than giving an exact number.
Negotiating with Recruiters
When working with recruiters, they are often aware of the budgeted hiring range and should be willing to share it early in your conversations.
Be attentive to any verbal or non-verbal cues indicating flexibility in negotiations.
While it’s rare, some employers may withdraw an offer if negotiations feel too aggressive.
Aim for a reasonable salary range and don’t assume you’ll get the top figure—it's typically reserved for more experienced employees.
If possible, leave some room for a counteroffer, as this allows both parties to feel more comfortable with the final figure.
Internal Promotion Salary Negotiation Tips
Be aware of internal compensation guidelines that may limit your salary increase, like a maximum increase percent.
When negotiating, ask HR for the salary range upfront.
The salaries of coworkers with more experience in the job or industry could affect your offer.
Aim to secure the highest salary possible during negotiations (you won’t be fired for negotiating if you’re already employed!).
The Art of Salary Negotiations Do's and Dont's
Dos:
Do your research – Understand the industry standards and company salary ranges to ensure your expectations are realistic.
Do remain calm and professional – Approach the negotiation with a positive and collaborative attitude.
Do prioritize your needs – Know what matters most to you (salary, benefits, work-life balance) and focus on these areas during the discussion.
Do practice your pitch – Rehearse how you’ll present your counteroffer to ensure you're clear, confident, and concise. After you present your counteroffer be patient and WAIT for the response.'=w
Do ask questions – Seek clarification on how compensation is structured, and ask about growth opportunities.
Don’ts:
Don’t accept the first offer too quickly – Take time to evaluate the full offer before making a decision.
Don’t undervalue your skills – Be confident in your worth and avoid underselling yourself to close the deal quickly.
Don’t be inflexible – Be prepared to adjust your expectations and be open to creative solutions (such as benefits or remote work flexibility).
Don’t make it personal – Keep the conversation focused on the role and value you bring, not personal financial needs.
Don’t burn bridges – If negotiations fall through, maintain professionalism and leave the door open for future opportunities.
Salary Negotiation Tools & Example Resources
Decision Tree for Salary Negotiations
Use this guide to help you through your salary negotiation process. It will help suggest the best actions to take at each stage of the negotiation to help you get the salary you deserve!
1. Is the Initial Job Offer Below Your Minimum Acceptable Salary?
Yes → Consider walking away or perform your research for a strong counteroffer.
No → Move to the next step in negotiation.
2. Do You Have Sufficient Salary Research to Back Up Your Request?
Yes → Proceed to step 3.
No → Conduct research using resources like ONET, Glassdoor, and Paycom to understand industry average salaries.
3. Is the Employer Open to Negotiating Based on Your Research?
Yes → Present your counteroffer with a clear explanation, emphasizing your skills, value, and market research.
No → Ask questions to gauge flexibility. If salary negotiations stall, explore other benefits (remote work, professional development opportunities, etc.).
4. Is the Employer Offering Acceptable Compensation Within Your Range?
Yes → Decide whether to accept offer or counteroffer again.
No → Be prepared to compromise or negotiate perks/benefits instead (e.g., flexible hours, remote work, or professional development).Evaluate whether you're willing to accept the offer or decide to walk away if it doesn't meet your needs.
5. Is the Offer Still Below Your Expectations After Negotiation?
Yes → Consider whether the role, company culture, and benefits outweigh the salary issue. Would you accept the job despite the lower salary?
No → Accept the offer and prepare to start your new role.
Salary Negotiation Example
Here's a real life example of a former client's salary negotiation experience:
Applicant applied for an accountant job in Nevada. They had 5 years of experience.
The salary range was unknown since Nevada has no salary transparency laws.
According to ONET, the median salary for this role in Nevada is $74,720, which fits someone with 3-5 years of experience.
Their research shows that senior accountants in the area earn between $70K and $90K.
The applicant determined they needed a salary between $70K and $85K.
The employer offered them $70K. Based on the salary research they responded with a counteroffer of $78K.
The potential employer returned with a final offer of $75 - which was accepted!
Remember, salary negotiation It's not a win or loss—it’s a process that is followed to help get closer to being paid what you're worth.
A Sample Salary Negotiation Letter After Job Offer
Subject: Salary Negotiation for Accounting Position Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], Thank you again for offering me the accountant position at [Company Name]. I’m excited regarding the opportunity to contribute to the team and leverage my experience in this role. After carefully considering the offer, I’d like to discuss the base salary. Based on my experience and current market research, I am requesting a starting salary of $78,000. This aligns with the median salary for accountants with similar experience in Nevada. I’m confident that my expertise, especially in [specific skill or achievement], will bring immediate value to [Company Name], and I’m eager to start making an impact. Please let me know if we can further discuss the offer, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards,[Your Full Name][Your Contact Information] |
A Sample Counteroffer Response
"Thank you for the offer. I’m really excited about the role, but based on my research, I believe the salary could be adjusted to reflect my skills and the value I would bring. Could we explore the possibility of increasing the base salary by $X?" |
When To Walk Away from Negotiations
What Should You Do When you are Lowballed?
Ask Clarifying Questions First
What is the total compensation package for this role (salary, bonuses, benefits, etc.)?
Are there opportunities for salary review after a certain period?
What is the process for performance evaluations and how do they impact compensation?"
Ask yourself the following questions
Does the potential employer respect me?
Does the potential employer appear to be transparent and open during salary negotiations?
Do I want to work here?
Can I live on this final salary?
Are there warning bells?
If you are experiencing doubts, walking away may be your best decision. Your time as a job seeker is valuable. Potential employers interview candidates, and candidates interview potential employers.
Remind yourself during negotiations that YOU are the person who was chosen to fill the posted job!
Knowing when to walk away means you don’t settle for less than you’re worth. Don’t be afraid to decline substandard offers.
Are There Benefit Alternatives to a Higher Salary?
Sometimes employers cannot offer higher salaries but they are willing to negotiate perks or benefits as an alternative to higher pay:
Remote work
One-time bonus
Professional Development Monies
Tuition Reimbursement
Specific Expense Reimbursement
Professional Title
Relocation Assistance
Flexible Hours
Sabbaticals or Unpaid Leave
Preferred Parking
Preferred Office Location
Note: Health insurance costs, 401k match, bonus percent or amount, stock, and additional vacation are not generally negotiable at large companies, but exceptions can occur for small companies, startups, or executives.
Conclusion
There is always the remote chance that the employer will decline to hire you if your request is too high. Most employers want to negotiate in good faith. KNOW YOUR WORTH while you negotiate. Job seekers interview prospective companies and companies interview job seekers. It works both ways.
Want to be Prepared for that Next Negotiation?
Now that you’re armed with new information and strategies, you can approach your next negotiation with confidence. Your worth is non-negotiable—make sure your salary reflects it. Let's work together to perfect your approach. Here's how I can help:
➡️ Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your career needs and goals
➡️ Grab your free job search guide to learn to network like a pro and accelerate your job search
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