How do you negotiate an offer with a candidate who asks for more than the budget?
What the interviewer wants to hear
- Learn expectations early to avoid surprises
- Understand what matters most to the candidate
- Sell total value, not just base pay
- Use approved levers and stay within pay equity
- Be honest about limits
Model answer
I try to avoid surprises by discussing salary expectations and the band at the phone screen. If a candidate still asks for more, I first ask what matters most: base pay, total income, growth, title or flexibility. Then I explain the full value of the offer, including bonus, ESOPs, insurance, learning budget and career path. If there is still a gap, I check approved levers with the hiring manager and HR, such as moving within the band, a one-time joining bonus or an early salary review. I avoid breaking pay bands because it creates unfairness with current employees. I am honest about what is possible, because trust matters more than winning one round. If the gap is too big, I accept that and keep the relationship good for the future.
Can you answer it under time pressure?
Take a timed medium round and get scored on every answer.
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