👋🏻 Jacob here.
If you’re like most executives — you’re getting screwed in your job negotiations.
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room that many win-win negotiators don’t notice: information asymmetry in job offer negotiations.
You think you’re playing chess, but the employer’s playing 4D chess while you’re still setting up the board.
Here’s the truth:
- The employer knows their budget, internal equity, and market rates. You’re left guessing.
- They’ve done this dance hundreds of times. You do it every few years, if that.
- They have a team of HR pros and lawyers. You have… Google?
- They know exactly how much wiggle room they have. You’re shooting in the dark.
Wake-up call: This isn’t a fair fight. And it’s not even close. It’s a setup for a win-lose negotiation.
Real negotiation power isn’t about fancy tactics or “power moves.”
It’s about:
- Understanding the full scope of what’s on the table (hint: it’s more than just base salary)
- Knowing the company’s pain points and how valuable it is for you to solve them
- Having multiple offers to create leverage
- Being willing to walk away (and meaning it)
- Mastering the art of silence in crucial moments
- Building rapport with the entire ELT and investors, not just HR
- Crafting a compelling narrative about your value
Oh, and remember – timing is everything.
Bring up money too soon? Game over. Too late? You’ve lost your leverage.
Are you missing these key points?
- Overly focused on “What’s your salary expectation?”Â
- Struggling to articulate your unique value proposition?
You’re likely getting lowballed—even if you think you’re winning. You’re exposed.
Asymmetrical negotiations will devastate your career earnings. They stroke your ego with a small win now but kneecap your earning potential for years to come.
Don’t settle for table scraps—learn how to create real compensation alignment.
Remember: Information is power. The more you know, the stronger your position.
Be strategic about what you share and when. It’s your best shot at leveling the playing field.
I’m producing a masterclass course soon. Message me if you want to get notified of the progress. In the meantime, read the #negotiation section on the Execs and the City blog for free help.
Stay fearless, friends.
See you next week.