Four scripts for the four moments of handling two offers: stalling Offer A, accelerating Offer B, declining without burning the bridge, and accepting with clarity.
How It Works
Four conversations. Four scripts. Each under 100 words. Use the one that matches the moment you are in. None of them include apology language, and none of them weaponize one offer against the other in a way that backfires.
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Script 1Stall Offer A Without Burning It
Use the moment Offer A arrives. You need seven days. You want to protect the relationship while you finish with Offer B.
"Thank you so much for this. I am genuinely excited about the role and the team. Before I commit, I want to take the time to make sure this is the right long-term fit for both of us. Can we target [specific day, ~7 days out] for my final response? I will be in touch by then with any last questions or my confirmation."
Rules
Name a specific target day. Vagueness invites pressure.
Seven days is standard. If they will not give you seven, that is information.
Do not mention the other offer. Yet.
Script 2Accelerate Offer B
Reach out to Company B the same day Offer A arrives. Tell them the truth. Compress their timeline without demanding.
"I wanted to let you know I received another offer this week. I am still very interested in your role and want to make my decision based on the full picture. Is there any flexibility on the timeline so I can move forward with confidence in the process? Happy to make myself available for any remaining conversations on short notice."
Rules
Do not name the other company or the number. Leverage does not require details.
Offer to be available on short notice. That is the pressure-release valve.
If they cannot move, that is information. Take it seriously.
Script 3Decline the Offer You Do Not Take
The decline call matters. Bridges stay open when you decline cleanly.
"I want to thank you for the offer and for the time you and the team invested in getting to know me. After careful consideration, I am going to accept another role. The decision was close and came down to [one specific reason - growth trajectory, commute, scope, team fit]. I would welcome the chance to stay in touch. If you have future openings that align, I hope you will reach back out."
Rules
No apology. You chose the other role. That is not something to be sorry about.
Name one specific reason. Vague reasons feel dismissive.
Leave the door open. Future roles at that company are still possible.
Script 4Accept With Clarity
Use this once you have negotiated the final terms and are ready to accept.
"I am ready to accept. Thank you for being flexible on [item they moved on]. Please send the updated offer letter and I will sign and return it by [specific date]. Looking forward to getting started on [start date]. In the meantime, let me know what the transition plan looks like - who I should expect to hear from and any prep material you can send ahead."
Rules
Confirm the specific date you will return the signed letter.
Ask about transition / prep material. Signals engagement before day one.
Do not over-thank. You negotiated in good faith. They accepted in good faith.
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