What to say when you negotiate
Salary offers, rent increases, "take it or leave it" sellers. Each guide gives you the opening line, the pressure move you will probably hear, and the reply that holds your position without starting a fight.
- How do you push back on a rent increase?Reflect the landlord's side, then anchor on comparable listings or unresolved repairs. Word-for-word lines for "the market says so".
- How do you negotiate a salary offer when they say they don't usually move?Name your number first, with one reason attached: the market band or your track record. Scripts for "we don't usually move" and "what are you basing that on?"
- What do you say when someone gives you a "take it or leave it" offer?Restate your number once, say the door stays open, then stop. Or bridge the last gap with a condition. Scripts for final offers and walk-away threats.
Practice it out loud
Reading the words helps. Saying them to someone who pushes back is what makes them stick.
Start a live round