Draft a compensation negotiation script with BATNA

Negotiate on Specifics, Not Instincts

Comp negotiation tends to end badly when candidates anchor on gratitude ("I'm just happy to get an offer") rather than on market data. First Round Review's negotiation writing and the Y Combinator library both emphasize BATNA (best alternative) and market anchoring as the discipline: negotiating from specifics produces better outcomes than negotiating from feelings.

How the Draft a compensation negotiation script with BATNA Prompt Works

The prompt builds market data + BATNA + anchor before writing the script, then structures three pushback handlers. The "one concession I'm willing to make" output clarifies the tradeoff you'll accept — negotiations that move on nothing read as combative.

When to Use It

• A job offer is in hand and you need to negotiate.
• A counter-offer is being considered and you need structure.
• A renewal negotiation at your current company is coming.
• A promotion with comp review is scheduled.
• A peer is negotiating and wants help preparing.

Common Pitfalls

• Anchoring on base salary only. Total comp (base + equity + bonus + benefits) is the negotiation unit.
• No BATNA. Without an alternative, you can't walk away, and the counterparty knows it.
• Opening with your target. Your target is what you'll settle for. Open 10-15% above.

Sources

• First Round Review — First Round
• Y Combinator Library — Y Combinator
• Begin with Trust — Harvard Business Review
• Kim Scott — Kim Malone Scott