Avoid These Words In Salary Talks

Just like every word on your resume matters, every word matters during salary negotiations.

Focus on expressing your value and the contributions you bring, making sure your words show respect for your skills and the role you're pursuing.

Steer clear from phrases that undermine your confidence or dilute your requests.

"Hope" Suggests uncertainty and weakness. Example "I hope to get a raise..." Instead Use "I believe my contributions warrant a discussion about a raise."

"Currently" Can lead to disclosing your current salary, which may limit future negotiations. Example "I'm currently making..." Instead Use "I would prefer to focus on the value I can add to this company."

"Just" Minimizes your request and makes it sound less significant. Example "I just want..." Instead "I would like to discuss..."

"Try" Implies a lack of commitment and can lead to vague responses. Example "Can we try to negotiate?" Instead "Let's discuss how we can reach a mutually beneficial agreement."

"More" Too general; doesn't specify what you are asking for. Example "I want more salary..." Instead "I would be more comfortable with a base salary of $105,000."

"Desired" Can box you in with specific figures. Example "My desired salary is..." Instead "I trust you to determine the value I can bring."

"No" Can create a negative atmosphere and shut down conversation. Example "No, that doesn't work for me." Instead "I would be more comfortable with..."

"Yes" (used too quickly) Accepting an offer immediately can limit further negotiation. Example "Yes, I accept!" Instead "Let me consider this offer and discuss a few points."

"If" Can introduce uncertainty into your requests. Example "If you could consider..." Instead "I would appreciate your consideration of..."

"Should" Sounds presumptive and may come off as demanding. Example "I think I should be paid more..." Instead "Based on my research and contributions, a higher salary aligns with industry standards."

"Later" Deferring discussions can lead to missed opportunities for negotiation. Example "I'll deal with that later." Instead "I believe we should address this now."

"Want" Can sound needy and less assertive. Example "I want more vacation time..." Instead "I would like to discuss additional vacation days."

"Maybe" Indicates indecisiveness and lack of confidence. Example "Maybe we can find a solution..." Instead "I am confident we can find a solution that works for both of us."

"Sorry" Apologizing can weaken your position in negotiations. Example "I'm sorry, but I need a higher salary." Instead "I believe my skills justify a higher salary."

"Attempt / Try" Conveys a lack of confidence or commitment. Example "I will attempt to negotiate..." Instead "I am prepared to negotiate for the best outcome."

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