Tool 23 · Salary & Compensation

BATNA Strength Scorer

BATNA = Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement. Research shows it's the single biggest predictor of negotiation outcomes — stronger than preparation, likability, or negotiation "tactics". Rate yours honestly.

Rate each factor 1-10

How many other active interview processes are you in?

Could you stay at your current role if this doesn't work out?

How in-demand is your skillset right now?

How portable is your work history?

What is your financial runway (months you can go without a job)?

Why BATNA is the only thing that matters

Roger Fisher and William Ury's "Getting to Yes" identified BATNA as the single most important variable in negotiation outcomes. A candidate with a strong BATNA — multiple offers, secure current role, in-demand skills — will almost always negotiate a better outcome than a candidate with a weak BATNA, regardless of tactics used. The honest answer to "what's your other option?" drives the conversation more than any prepared phrase.