It's definitely acqui-hire, too. That makes sense! Thanks for the perspective. I'm just wondering what arguments to bring to these types of conversations.

This reminded me of a 30 Rock episode in which Jack Donaghy applies insights from negotiating with his nanny to negotiations with the cable company acquiring NBC.[1] Basically, if you're vital for the acquisition to succeed, you have (some) leverage.

[1]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7-eoiY4bOo

The only argument that matters is I-have-other-options.

A negotiation is not an argument. It is an agreement.

Either you reach one or you don’t.

And if you agree to something that you don’t want to live with, you’re already halfway out the door.