Negotiating a salary can feel uncomfortable, even nerve-wracking. But in today’s job market, it’s essential. According to recent data, only about 45% of workers negotiate their starting salary—and those who do, usually succeed: 78% end up getting a better offer. Yet, people often avoid negotiating because they fear rejection or conflict.
1. Why Use a Scripted Approach?
Scripts aren’t about being robotic—they’re about clarity, confidence, and ensuring you hit the right points.
- Structure: A good script keeps the conversation focused.
- Confidence: Practicing your words reduces anxiety.
- Consistency: Scripts ensure you don’t forget key details (like market data or accomplishments).
- Professional tone: Helps maintain calm and assertiveness—especially under pressure.
Think of it more like a rehearsal than a rigid play—it keeps you prepared without making you sound stiff.
2. Do Your Homework First
Before even thinking of scripts, do research and prep. Here’s what to focus on:
- Market Research
Use tools like Glassdoor, Payscale, LinkedIn, or industry reports to gauge salary ranges in your field and region. - Know Your Value
Write down your achievements—projects, metrics, awards—that back your case. Quantifiable results (like “reduced costs by 15%”) carry the most weight. - Survey the Role
Understand the company culture, role demands, location, and hiring trends. These give insight into how flexible they might be. - Pick a Target Number
Always ask for a specific figure (e.g., ₹61,150, not roughly ₹60,000). Precise numbers signal preparation. - Know Your Floor
Define the minimum you’d accept so you’re ready to walk away if needed. This clarity shows strength.
3. When to Bring It Up
Timing matters greatly:
- New job: Wait until after you’ve received a written offer. It’s risky to negotiate before you’re certain they want you.
- Existing role: Bring it up after a big win, project milestone, performance review, or when you’re exceeding responsibilities.
- General rule: Ask when you have value to prove and leverage, not when you’re vulnerable or exhausted .
4. Core Script Framework
All negotiation conversations follow this structure:
- Express gratitude and enthusiasm
- State your research and contributions
- Ask for the specific raise or salary
- Pause and listen
- Answer objections calmly
- End positively, no matter what
Here’s a base template:
“Thank you for the offer—I’m excited about the role and team. Based on market research and my [X years of experience / achievements], I’d like to discuss a salary of ₹X. Does that work for you?”
Let’s break it down and adapt it to different scenarios.
5. Scripts for New Job Offers
A. Countering the Initial Offer
“Thanks for the offer. I’ve really enjoyed our conversations and feel I’d be a strong fit. Given my experience in [specific skills/projects], I was expecting around ₹7.5 LPA, based on industry data in our region. Is there flexibility to meet that?”
Use your exact figure here, and back it up with market knowledge.
B. When You Have Another Offer
If you’ve received another offer:
“I appreciate your offer. I do have another offer for ₹8 LPA with [benefits details]. I’d really prefer to join your team—can we align closer to ₹7.8 LPA?”
Being transparent about competition—and respectful—can motivate them to match or improve .
C. When Salary is Non-Negotiable
Some companies claim the offer is firm. Still, you can negotiate perks:
“Thanks. If ₹X is the ceiling for now, would it be possible to discuss a signing bonus, an extra week of leave, or a review at 90 days?”
There are often easier ways to improve your total package .
6. Scripts for Raises at Your Current Job
A. During Review / Post Success
“I appreciate the support this year. After successfully leading [project], which increased revenue by 20%, I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation to ₹X LPA, which aligns with market averages and my contributions.”
Highlight results and peer benchmarks .
B. If Told No
“I understand budget constraints. Could we revisit this in six months? Or consider alternative perks like flexible hours, a learning allowance, or a bonus instead?”
Demonstrating flexibility keeps the door open.
7. Handling Common Scenarios
A. They Say It’s “Best & Final”
“I understand. Could we discuss adding a signing bonus or title adjustment to reflect my role scope? If the salary isn’t flexible now, perhaps we can set a 6-month performance review.”
Many companies can add perks even when salary is fixed .
B. They Make a Lower Counteroffer
“Thanks for considering my request. Could you share how you arrived at this number? I want to understand your perspective.”
Then respond:
“Based on my performance and market benchmarking (e.g., ₹X–Y), is there room to adjust?”
Always be polite, ask questions, and anchor on data .
8. Tone & Body Language
- Be friendly but firm: Avoid aggression—recruiters say tone matters most.
- Use active listening: Nod, pause when they talk, and respond thoughtfully.
- Maintain calm: This isn’t a fight; it’s a conversation with mutual respect.
9. Why This Works
- Structured yet personal: Scripts help you stay on topic without sounding robotic.
- Anchors expectations: Specific numbers set clear reference points.
- Demonstrates preparation: Shows you did your homework—most candidates don’t.
- Creates partnership: Employers expect negotiation—78% get improved offers when they try.
10. Real-World Results & Data
- Only 31% negotiated in recent surveys—even “best and final” offers often can be improved with perks.
- Offers increase by ~7–10% when negotiated—even annual raises hover around 8–9% .
- Women and minorities negotiate less—and often regret missing out. Knowing scripts can help bridge that gap .
11. Practice, Practice, Practice
- Role-play with a trusted friend or mentor.
- Record yourself to notice tone or pacing.
- Adjust your script until it feels natural—not rehearsed.
12. Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | How to Avoid |
| Long-winded | Use short, clear statements with numbers |
| Too aggressive | Start with gratitude and ease into the ask |
| Flexible floor | Know your minimum and stick to it |
| Panicking | Silence is your friend—let them respond |
| Skipping docs | Always ask for the final offer in writing |
13. Wrapping Up—What to Say When You’re Done
End every conversation politely:
“Thanks so much for discussing this with me—I’m excited to join and contribute.”
Regardless of outcome, you build goodwill, confidence, and set the tone for future negotiations.
Summary
- Research thoroughly—market, role, achievements
- Set target and floor—with precise numbers
- Choose the timing—offer stage or review time
- Use structure and scripts—gratitude, value, ask, listen
- Stay positive—collaborative, not combative
- Practice ahead—so words flow naturally
- Negotiate perks if salary stalls
- Get everything in writing
A scripted approach isn’t about faking—it’s about preparing. It helps you speak with purpose, respond smartly, and present yourself like someone who owns their value—and gets paid for it.
Source : thepumumedia.com