Relief makes people sign too quickly. After months of search, a clean offer feels like the finish line. It is usually the start of a short, consequential negotiation window.
Separate the package into movable and fixed parts
Base salary and company car policies are often less flexible than bonus curves, signing arrangements, or start dates. Knowing which lever the employer can actually pull prevents wasted friction.
Notice periods cut both ways
A long notice period protects you and also delays your start — which can sour a board that wanted urgency. Align your counter-proposal with the operational reality of the role, not only with personal preference.
Bring counsel early
Offer negotiation counsel is most useful before you thank anyone for the package. Once you signal soft acceptance, room to adjust shrinks. Pair our commercial reading with a lawyer for the Dienstvertrag itself.