Counter-Offer Math

Counter-offers are common — and most should be rejected. Here's how to evaluate one.

Calculate the total delta

Include base, bonus, equity, and benefits. A 10% base bump that erases your sign-on bonus elsewhere is not a real win.

Consider the structural reason for the switch

If you were leaving for growth, culture, or scope, no counter-offer fixes those. If you were leaving purely for money, a competitive counter can be valid — but understand it may flag you as a flight risk.