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5. REVIEWING JOB OFFERS
  5.2 NEGOTIATE JOB OFFERS
   
  Negotiating in Writing
   
  It is always preferable to negotiate in person, however, in some situations you may have no choice but to negotiate in writing. It can give you the opportunity to word your remarks carefully (without getting flustered). It gives the employer a chance to evaluate your ideas, talk them over with others, and to make a counter offer. It avoids instant refusal. If you decide to do this, ask for the employer’s preference for delivery—via e-mail with attachment, in the text of an e-mail, USPS overnight, hand delivery, etc.

Remember to keep the letter positive and factual. Use the following rules to work your negotiation letter:

Hand Writing
 
  1. Express your appreciation for the offer.
  1. Mention that you are interested but would like to suggest some changes before accepting the offer.
  1. List the issues of concern and suggest specific changes.
  1. Suggest you are confident a mutually satisfactory arrangement can be reached.
  1. Request a personal meeting to discuss issues, and suggest a date.
  1. Do this within 24 hours of the offer.
  See the examples of negotiation letters on the following pages.
 
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