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Should You Negotiate a Job Offer for In-House Counsel?

By William Vogeler, Esq. on May 04, 2018 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

Yes.

That's the anwer to the headline's question. Next question: How do you negotiate the job offer?

That answer will take a few more words because it's not what you were thinking. It's not just about the money.

Dominate the Boilerplate

If you've heard some of this before, maybe that's because FindLaw's Casey Sullivan nailed it with tips for mastering the in-house interview. Basically, he says you should come prepared with answers to the standard questions, like:

  • What can you tell us about yourself?
  • Why are you interested in this position?
  • Why are you looking to change jobs?

Don't just recycle your resume in the interview. Give the employer new and interesting information, especially things that show you are a "good fit" for the company.

Provided you answered their questions well, you are in position to ask a few of your own. Pay? Benefits? Vacation? Holidays? These are pre-negotiation questions.

Negotiate the 'Whole Deal'

After you find out what is on the table, think about whether you really want more. Maybe you are satisfied already, and you don't want to risk asking for too much.

If you go there, however, keep the whole deal in mind. Job satisfaction is not just about the money; it often comes from other factors.

Talk about responsibilities, travel, flexibile work hours, opportunities for growth, perks, etc. Timing, especially when it comes to asking for more, is everything.

"Think not just about how you're willing to be rewarded but also when," says the Harvard Business Review. "You may decide to chart a course that pays less handsomely now but will put you in a stronger position later."

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