This is an anonymous post from an Elpha member.

TIkTok/Bytedance offer - too many negotiation asks?

Krystal19·Mar 05, 2021

Posted in:Advice Compensation Job Hunting

I recently got an offer to join TikTok, a dream company for me. I'm mid career and from the feedback I've gotten, think I crushed the interview. The issue is the number of big asks I'll have as I negotiate the offer:1. The role is in a different city than I currently live in. They've indicated not having to move might be on the table, but I've gotten mixed signals on whether or not this will be required. I'd rather not move and would likely turn it down if I had to. 2. I'm actually quite happy where I currently am - I was promoted recently and have some projects I'd want to finish out that would take me through July. I don't know whether I can ask to not start until July or August, or if they have to wait that long, if they'd just go with a different candidate. 3. The comp came in a bit low -- I know they can afford to pay what I think I actually deserve, so I'll likely counter for 20% more. My question is how to approach this negotiation and whether the first two asks limit my leverage for the last one. Do you think I can find a way to get all three things, or is my best bet to stay in my current role and keep in touch for a role in my city at a better time?

teresaman·Mar 06, 2021

Congrats on the offer!!For me, of the three things I would prioritizing getting clarity on whether or not relocation is necessary for the job. And, if it is, whether or not they would provide assistance in relocation (moving expenses, visas, sponsoring spouses, etc.)I think once you have information on that, you can decide if —1) you want to continue with negotiating your start date and compensation2) if compensation should now be adjusted for cost of living or lack of relocation assistance, etc.

kristenfang·Mar 06, 2021

A resource I found *super* helpful in salary negotiation was this website/book: https://fearlesssalarynegotiation.com/salary-negotiation-guide/

TLC·Mar 06, 2021

I wouldn’t look at it as you have to limit your asks. What if start date and salary are flexible for them but their biggest gap is someone with the right skill set? You’ll limit yourself by tempering your asks. See if you can find out what their biggest needs/priorities are for this role, or what’s low priority/high flexibility - is their greatest need urgency to fill it? Then they might have less room to budge on start date. Whatever you’re asking cite a principle behind it. It’s harder for them to argue with logic “I’m seeking fair market value salary for this role which is typically in the range of $##-##” than simply “I want more money”. You’ll need a better principle than “I want to finish my current job and stay until July” or they will say ‘then stay at that current job’. But if you give up something (like start date) (aka a concession) be sure to make it known so they feel compelled to offer something in return. Good luck!

Aileen·Mar 07, 2021

How about “I feel a professional responsibility to complete X, Y, Z before leaving”.