- Employers
- Offering a job
What to do when your candidate receives a counter-offer
November 1, 2026 · 11 minute read
Making the right offer is one of the most important stages in the hiring process. Timing, salary alignment and clear communication all play a role in whether a candidate accepts or walks away. Explore practical advice to help you structure offers, manage expectations and secure the right hire.
Salary guides
Salary is often the deciding factor at the offer stage. If expectations aren’t aligned, candidates are more likely to negotiate heavily or accept another opportunity.
Our 2027 UK salary guides provide up-to-date benchmarks across marketing & sales, tech, IT and data, alongside comparisons to 2026 and projections for 2028. Use them to structure competitive offers and reduce the risk of losing candidates.
FAQs
A job offer should clearly outline salary, benefits, role responsibilities and start date. It should also confirm any key expectations discussed during the process. A clear and structured offer helps candidates make informed decisions and reduces back-and-forth.
Making a job offer more attractive comes down to aligning with candidate expectations. This includes salary, benefits, flexibility and progression. Clear communication around the opportunity and how the role fits into the wider business also helps strengthen the offer.
Offers should be made as soon as you’ve identified the right candidate. Delays can lead to candidates losing interest or accepting other roles. Moving quickly helps maintain momentum and improves your chances of securing the hire.
Candidates typically reject offers due to salary misalignment, unclear expectations or stronger opportunities elsewhere. This often links back to earlier stages in the process. Aligning expectations early and communicating clearly helps reduce the risk of rejection.
Reducing offer rejections starts with aligning salary, role expectations and candidate motivations throughout the process. Keeping communication consistent and addressing concerns early helps ensure there are no surprises at the offer stage.
Yes, it’s common for candidates to negotiate an offer, particularly around salary. Being prepared for this and understanding your flexibility helps you manage discussions more effectively. A well-aligned offer from the start usually leads to smoother negotiations.