"No."
"In negotiations, you'll have to be willing to be flexible and provide counteroffers when the offer isn't in line with what you are seeking," says Kahn. By saying "no" you could be quickly closing the door on the offer at hand.
"Bottom line'/'This is my final/last offer."
These phrases sound like threats, and they typically close out the negotiation, says Kane. "If you say any of these things, and the demand is not met by the employer, the negotiation will be over and you'll have to be prepared to walk away."
"I know this may sound a little aggressive, but ..."
If your rationale is based on fact, you should never have to preface your request with this type of disclaimer.
"I need ..."
You should never say you need X amount more because of expenses or debt. "Don't bring in personal issues; this is about your merit and the job fit," says Taylor.
"I hate to have to ask for this, but ..."
True, it might not be the easiest thing to ask for more money — but saying you "hate to have to do it" is a flat-out lie. Plus, it's just a really terrible way to preface the negotiation.
"I heard you offered John $X, and I'm a harder worker."
Never use gossip in a salary negotiation — and definitely don't compare yourself to others. It's mean and unprofessional.
Of course it's fine (and recommended) to do your research on compensation — but that should be done on sites like Glassdoor and PayScale ... not at the office water cooler
"The least I'd be willing to accept is X."
If you tell them the parameters of the lowest offer your willing to take, that could be what you'll get.
