Leveraging an offer for internal advancement

As we discussed in the last post, multiple offers can help you gain the upper hand during a negotiation.

Now let’s consider the following scenario — you are gainfully employed but thanks to a combination of personal curiosity, inbound inquiries, and general interest you find yourself presented with an offer to work elsewhere. As you deliberate your options, you wonder if this external offer could help you achieve a promotion or raise at your current company.

While another offer can certainly serve as a catalyst for internal advancement, there are a few things to keep in mind when broaching this delicate subject with your employer:

1. Prepare your script

It’s important to thoughtfully prepare your script to establish a productive and positive tone as well as avoid key pitfalls during your negotiation. After hearing about your offer, your boss may wonder:

• Are you still committed to the job? Have you checked out?

• Are you loyal to the company? Can you be trusted?

• What is your end goal or motivation?

• Why are you pressuring them to make a decision at an inconvenient time?

Your attempt at negotiating could backfire if you present your ask in a cavalier manner. Instead, think about how you can clearly communicate your situation — which brings us to the next step…

2. Focus on positive positioning

It’s important to raise the discussion with a focus on problem solving and mutual respect. You want to eliminate the potential for misunderstanding or hurt feelings.

I’ve recently received an offer from company X. The role is for [insert title/responsibilities] and they are offering me $Y. I’ve been very pleased with my experience working here, but it’s important for me to continue to grow and achieve meaningful impact in this field. Would it be possible to reassess my current [pay/title/responsibilities]? I would love to hear your thoughts.

3. Check if goals are aligned

It’s good practice to consistently communicate your career goals and ensure that proper alignment and acknowledgement exist with your employer. Although your boss may not be thrilled by the possibility of losing you, the chances of feeling blindsided or hurt are lessened if there has been open dialogue about your professional aspirations and desire for opportunities aligned with your skills, interests, and experiences.

If your employer is unable or unwilling to make changes to your current situation based on another offer, you have an opportunity to discuss where you stand as you carefully evaluate your options:

Are my goals and efforts still in line with the organization’s priorities? Is there a reasonable timeline for future growth opportunities and advancement that we can explore?

Another offer represents a meaningful update to your market value. If handled correctly, it can remind others about your value, lead to an increased offer or an accelerated plan for advancement internally, and even deepen your relationship with your current employer who can help champion your ongoing growth and success.

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