Sarah's Rockstar Offer: A Case Study in Negotiation
Exciting news! I have two negotiation and leadership courses starting next week at Stanford—check out the details below.
In the meantime, let’s explore a real-world negotiation scenario: Sarah is navigating a big career move and aiming to secure the best offer possible. As you read her story, reflect on what she did well and what she might have done differently.
The Opportunity
Sarah was interviewing for an opportunity that would take her from the east coast to the west coast to work for the prestigious firm Rockstar. The interview process was going really well, and Sarah was leaning toward simply accepting Rockstar's initial offer if it fell within her preferred salary range. This was her dream job and she didn’t want to appear greedy or ungrateful. However, after recently completing an inspiring negotiation course, Advocate for More, Sarah realized that perhaps she was worth more — and now she had the skills to ask for it.
The Negotiation
The negotiation process was relatively straightforward. During a quick phone call, the hiring manager, Bob, offered Sarah $130K. She requested some time to consider the offer and discuss the terms with her partner. After reviewing her market value research, Sarah responded with a counteroffer: $140K plus a $5K stipend to cover relocation expenses.
Below is the email exchange between Sarah and Bob.
Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 10:18 AM PST
To: Bob
Subject: Offer
Hi Bob,
I really like the team you’ve assembled and the project itself, but I’m having some reservations regarding this offer, and I also have a higher offer from another organization. I think what would make this a no-brainer for me would be if the offer was $140K with the $5K moving stipend we discussed. I’m really excited about the work this team has ahead, and it seems like it would be a good fit for everyone.
Thanks,
Sarah
Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 1:52 PM PST
To: Sarah
Subject: Re: Offer
Let me see what I can do.
Thanks,
Bob
Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 8:47 AM PST
To: Sarah
Subject: Re: Offer
Hi Sarah,
We should be able to make an offer to you at ~$136K / year + $5K moving expense. Please try to get back to me as soon as you can.
Best,
Bob
Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 9:15 AM PST
To: Bob
Subject: Re: Offer
Hi Bob,
That sounds great. Thanks so much for making this happen. For offer letter purposes, I should be able to start in [New City] on [Start Date]. I can start remotely as soon as we can complete the paperwork.
Thanks,
Sarah
What Do You Think of Sarah’s Strategy?
While Sarah successfully secured a higher offer, every negotiation has room for improvement.
What do you think Sarah did well in her approach?
Are there any areas where she could have done something differently?
How would you have handled this negotiation if you were in Sarah’s shoes?
Reflect on these questions and stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll break down Sarah’s strategy, share what she nailed, and explore areas for improvement.
Take Your Negotiation and Leadership Skills to the Next Level
Has Sarah’s story inspired you to elevate your negotiation and leadership skills? If so, join me in my upcoming courses starting next week:
BUS 183W: Negotiation Skills for Women: Advocate for More
A five-week live-online course to sharpen your negotiation skills, Jan 29 - Feb 26BUS 110: Leadership Workshop for Women: Strategies and Skills for Excellence
A two-day, in-person skills workshop at Stanford University, Feb 1-2, 10am-4pm PT