Free guide
Competing offer counteroffer email template
Updated November 11, 2026. Use a real written offer to ask for one clear number.
If you truly have another written offer, you can mention it honestly and briefly. The goal is not to threaten. It is to show the company you want them and name the number that lets you say yes.
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Example email
Subject: Re: Product Designer offer
“Hi Alex,
Thank you again. Northwind is my first choice, and I'd love to make this work.
To be transparent, I've received another written offer with a base of $88,000. I'd much rather join Northwind. If you can bring the base to $88,000, I'm ready to accept today.
Thank you for looking into it,
Jordan”
Only say “ready to accept today” if you mean it. If they meet the number, follow through.
Rules that keep it honest
- Only mention an offer that is real and in writing.
- Never inflate the number.
- Ask once, with one number, not a range.
- If the base will not move, ask about a signing bonus or an early compensation review instead.
The Offer Kit writes this email with your role, company and numbers, plus the request for the offer in writing, a value-based counter, a plan for when base salary won't move, and accept-and-confirm. One-time $29, 14-day refund.
Related free tools
- How to negotiate with a competing offer
- Salary negotiation email template
- Job offer acceptance email template
- Salary counteroffer calculator
How do I mention a competing offer in an email?
Say the company is your first choice, state the other written offer's base plainly, name the number that would let you accept, and keep it short.
Should I mention a competing offer I don't really have?
No. Never invent or inflate an offer. Only use this if you have another written offer you would actually take.
Do I need to share the other company's name?
No. The base amount is usually enough. Share more only if you are comfortable doing so.
Is this career or legal advice?
No. It is practical communication guidance.
Guidance only, not legal, financial, or tax advice. Results vary. This is a communication aid, not a guarantee of any outcome.