How to counter a job offer (without risking it)

To counter a job offer, respond within a day or two, thank them, confirm you're interested, and name one specific counteroffer with a short reason based on the role and market range. Ask for the change most important to you first. If they counter back, confirm the new terms in writing and decide against the minimum you set before you started.

Before you counter

Read the full package, not just the salary
Decide your counteroffer number and your private minimum
Pick the one or two terms that matter most to you

How to make the counteroffer

Start with thanks and genuine interest in the role.
State one specific request: a salary number, or salary plus one other term.
Give one short reason tied to the scope of the job or the market range.
Close with a simple invitation to discuss, without apologizing.

If they come back with less

Don't answer on the spot. Thank them, ask for the revised terms in writing, and compare them with your minimum. If salary can't move, ask one question about another term, such as a signing bonus, extra vacation or an earlier review date.

Questions

Can a counteroffer get my offer rescinded?

It's rare when the request is polite and reasonable, but it's possible. Keeping the tone warm and the request specific reduces the risk.

How long should I take to counter?

A day or two is usual. If you need longer, ask for a specific date rather than going quiet.

Can I negotiate after I already accepted?

It's much harder once you've accepted verbally or signed, and reopening it can hurt the relationship. If something material changed or you found an error in the written offer, raise it right away and explain what changed.

Will I lose the offer if I negotiate?

It's uncommon when the request is polite, specific and reasonable. The risk rises with ultimatums, repeated rounds of demands or numbers you can't support.

When is it better not to negotiate?

When pay is set by a public scale or a union contract, when the range was posted and your offer is already at the top, or when you've already agreed to a number without a change in the role.