Salary negotiation phrases that actually work

Rule one: never give a single number first

A single number anchors you. If you say 6 LPA and they had 8 in mind, you just lost 2. Always give a range, and always make the bottom of your range above your real floor.

Phrases for “expected salary”

• “Based on the role and market, I am looking at 6 to 7.5 LPA.” — a range, not a number.
• “I would like to understand the full package first — fixed, variable, and benefits.” — buys time.
• “My current CTC is X, and I am looking for a meaningful step up.” — when they insist on current.
• “I am flexible on structure if the overall package works.” — signals reasonableness.

Phrases for the offer stage

• “Thank you — I am excited about this. Can we revisit the base?”
• “If the base is fixed, can we add a joining bonus or review at six months?”
• “I have another offer at X. I prefer this role — can we close the gap?” — only if true.

What not to say

• “Whatever you think is fair.” — you give away all leverage.
• “I need at least X because of my expenses.” — your expenses are not their problem.
• “I will accept anything to get in.” — you will be paid accordingly.
• Lying about a competing offer. It gets checked.

Three rules

1. Delay the number as long as you politely can.
2. Anchor high, concede slowly, never in one step.
3. Get the offer in writing before you negotiate harder.

For the other 39 questions — including “tell me about yourself” and “why should we hire you” — with audio and video, see the interview English guide or tell me about yourself guide. New guides: why should we hire you, biggest weakness answer, expected salary answer. You can also read verified buyer reviews.