14 Things You Should Avoid Saying While Negotiating For A Better Salary & Why

While The Lion King painted a very rosy picture of the circle of life in our minds, adult life made sure that all our dreams and aspirations come crashing down. Working becomes one of the biggest challenges in adult life and if you can’t get paid enough for what you do; what’s the point, right?

When we spoke about the challenges faced by youngsters who are exploited by companies in the form of unpaid internships, there were a lot of people who were quick to point out that even full-time jobs aren’t paying well to a lot of individuals. And then we thought, maybe that’s because not a lot of people are aware of what to say during negotiating for a better pay.

We’ve compiled a list of a few phrases that you should definitely avoid while negotiating for a pay salary:

1. “I’m happy with this.”

A lot of people blindly say yes to the first offer that is placed on the table. That isn’t just stupid on your part, but it also gives out a message that you are gullible and can be coerced into working more for peanuts.

2. “I’m looking for a raise of X in my salary.”

Never be the first one to put out a number in front of your superiors. While you might think that the amount you quote is sufficient, they might have had a better option in their minds. Why would you want to limit the salary-hike?

3. “You’re offering me peanuts!”

The whole point behind a negotiation is to bring two parties to come to a conclusion in a civilised manner. Once you start getting rude, the chances of your desired outcome starts to diminish. Don’t give your boss a chance to get pissed off during the negotiations.

4. “Another company is offering me more money.”

While this scenario might be true, it can definitely be avoided. You want the company to respect your work and pay you accordingly, so this tactic makes the whole negotiation seem like a hostage deal. Especially if you’re bluffing, be very sure that the HR will definitely find out.

5. “No.”

You need to avoid the N-word during all conversations but saying “No” during a negotiation is definitely something that will affect the outcome. If you’re not flexible enough to put forward a counter-offer, what’s the point of a negotiation in the first place.

6. “This is my final offer…”

A hard-line stance is going to do you more harm than good. Putting an end to the negotiations by saying this is definitely going to limit your options. Why would you want to shoot yourself in the foot by saying this?

7. “I am already suffering from a financial crunch. The loans are taking a toll on me and my salary seems insufficient to support my needs.”

A hike in your salary should be based on merit, and not your personal problems. If you haven’t done anything worthwhile to deserve a raise, why would you get one?

8. “I heard you offered my colleague way more money and I definitely work harder than they do.”

Using office gossip and rivalries in a professional discussion makes no sense. Your work should be the benchmark of success, not what others are making.

9. “The least offer that I’ll accept is…”

If you tell them the lowest amount of money that you’re willing to accept, why would the company pay you more? It’s a rookie mistake made by many.

10. “I’m so sorry I am bothering you and I don’t mean to impose anything but…”

You need to have enough confidence in yourself and your work to go forward and ask for a raise. If you think that you deserve a raise, why are you sorry about asking for it?

11. “Do you think that’s all I’m worth. I deserve more than this.”

There are other ways to tell them about your value to the company than being an obnoxious asshole about it. If you think that you are being undervalued, tell them about your work at the company and convince them without being a dick.

12. “Give me what I want or else I’m out of here.”

It’s fine to look at other opportunities if you feel that you’re not being adequately compensated for your work but it’s not cool to threaten the company. If you think that you’re that valuable an asset then why would you be in such a situation in the first pace.

13. “Would it be okay if…”

Confidence is the key to success during any negotiation. Never give an impression where it seems like even you don’t know what you want from the company. If you’re a little firm about exactly what you’re asking for, chances are that the company would agree.

14. “I’d prefer cash in hand.”

That’s the thing about salary negotiations; even when the chances of a pay-hike are less, it’s likely that you can get the company to increase your other benefits. You need to be a little smart here. Get added benefits like insurance, vacations, etc if an increase in wage is a no-go.