Phrase library / Negotiating pay & promotion

What to say at work: negotiating pay & promotion

Phrases for salary ranges, counteroffers, raises, promotions and hearing no.

“Whatever you think is fair is fine with me.”

“Based on the role and market data, I'm looking for 85 to 95 thousand.”

Naming a researched range anchors the conversation.

“Okay, I'll take it!”

on the first offer

“Thank you, I'm excited. Can I have until Thursday to review the full offer?”

Time to review is standard and gives you room to negotiate.

“Is there any way you could maybe do a little more?”

“If we can get to 92, I'm ready to sign today.”

A specific number plus a commitment is easy to say yes to.

“I feel like I deserve a raise.”

“Since my last review, I've taken on two accounts and grown revenue 18%. Let's discuss my pay.”

Evidence turns a feeling into a business case.

“I've been here three years, so…”

“I'm already doing work at the next level. Here are three examples.”

Promotions follow impact, not tenure.

“Oh, okay, I understand.”

“I understand. What would need to be true for this to happen in six months?”

A no becomes a set of milestones you can work toward.

“If you can't do the salary, that's okay.”

“If base salary is fixed, could we look at a signing bonus or an extra week off?”

Other levers often have more room than base pay.

“I have another offer, so you'd better match it.”

“I have another offer, but this role is my first choice. Is there flexibility?”

Leverage lands better when paired with genuine interest.

“I'm not sure I'm ready, but I'd like to be considered…”

“I'd like to be considered for the lead role. Here's why I'm a strong fit.”

Asking directly shows the confidence the role requires.

“Sorry to bring up money…”

“I'd like to talk about compensation before we finalize.”

Pay is a normal business topic, so treat it like one.

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