> “If we were to make you the following offer (state the offer in full detail, including cash, equity, benefits, etc), would you accept?”
If they say yes, then make them offer.
This is most effectively done on a paper note, passed between classmates, so that there is plausible deniability if they say no /s
This is a funny tactic because it should not work with a thoughtful negotiator.
"If we were to make the offer" is de-facto an offer, it's just not official, and though there might be a legal difference between an 'if we made it' and 'actual offer' ... for all intents and purposes, it's the same. It's the start of the negotiation.
A half-smart negotiator would simply say: "Yes, if you included moving expenses" or whatever they would say otherwise.
This is most effectively done on a paper note, passed between classmates, so that there is plausible deniability if they say no /s