Counteroffer Playbook
Handle "my employer matched it" without panic
Produces a response plan when candidates receive counteroffers. Focuses on decision drivers, long-term fit, and ethical persuasion — not guilt or pressure.
INGREDIENTS
PROMPT
Create a skill called "Counteroffer Playbook". Inputs: - Candidate situation and what they value - Our offer package - Counteroffer details (if known) - What we can and cannot change Output: 1) A short diagnostic script (questions to uncover real drivers) 2) Messaging framework (respectful, non-aggressive) 3) Negotiation options (what to adjust, what not to) 4) A final "decision deadline" note that is fair and transparent
How It Works
Describe the candidate's situation, your offer, and the counteroffer details.
The skill builds a diagnostic script and messaging framework.
What You Get
- A diagnostic script (questions to uncover real drivers)
- A messaging framework (respectful, non-aggressive)
- Negotiation options (what to adjust, what not to)
- A fair decision deadline note
Setup Steps
- Describe the candidate's situation and what they value
- Detail your offer package
- Add counteroffer details if known
- Clarify what you can and cannot change
- Execute the conversation plan
Tips
- Most counteroffers are about something other than money — the diagnostic uncovers it
- Never guilt-trip or use scare tactics about counteroffer statistics
- A fair deadline respects the candidate while keeping your pipeline moving
- If they choose the counteroffer, exit gracefully — they might come back