What do you do when your counteroffer is withdrawn?

1 Why did they withdraw the offer?

It's important to understand why your counteroffer was withdrawn; it could be for various reasons, such as having a strict budget, finding another candidate who accepted their initial offer or asked for less, being offended by your counteroffer, having a change of plans, or making a mistake. You may never know the exact reason, but the best thing you can do is to ask for feedback and clarification without being defensive or accusatory. Consider sending a polite email or making a phone call to express your disappointment and interest in the position, and ask if there is any room for negotiation or reconsideration. Additionally, you may want to inquire if they can keep you in mind for future opportunities or refer you to other companies that may be looking for someone with your skills and experience.

2 How do you respond professionally?

Even if you feel angry, hurt, or frustrated by the withdrawal of your counteroffer, you should never burn bridges or react impulsively. You never know when you may cross paths with the employer again, or how they may influence your reputation and network in your industry. Therefore, you should always respond professionally and gracefully, and thank them for their time and consideration. You can also express your appreciation for the opportunity and the learning experience, and wish them well for their future endeavors. You should avoid badmouthing the employer, making threats or demands, or begging for another chance. You should also refrain from discussing the details of your counteroffer or the withdrawal with anyone outside of your trusted circle, as this may damage your credibility and privacy.

3 What steps can you take to move forward?

After responding professionally and closing the communication with the employer, you should not let this setback hinder your job search. Do not lower your standards or expectations, or settle for less than what you deserve. Instead, take this as an opportunity to learn from your experience and improve your salary negotiation skills. Review your counteroffer to identify what worked and what didn't. Seek feedback from mentors, coaches, or peers who have successfully negotiated their salaries. Expand your network and opportunities by reaching out to contacts, recruiters, or referrals who can help you find or create new openings that match your goals and qualifications. Stay positive and resilient by celebrating your accomplishments, acknowledging your strengths, and affirming your worth. Negotiating your salary is a challenging process that requires preparation, research, communication, and confidence. By understanding why your counteroffer was withdrawn, responding professionally and gracefully, and taking steps to move forward, you can turn this situation into a learning opportunity for growth and success.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?