10 Things you should never say in a salary negotiation
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❌ “My current salary is KES 50,000 ”
Never disclose your current salary because it will kill your chances of future negotiation.
Say this instead:
✅ “I’d prefer not to disclose my current salary. Would you be able to share with me the salary range for this type of role?”
❌ “I’m looking for KES 100,000 if that would be ok?”
Asking for validation makes you sound unsure of yourself and undermines your credibility.
Say this instead:
✅ “Based on my market research and expertise, I’m looking for something between KES 70,000 – KES. 100,000.”
❌ “I need more to cover my expenses”
Bringing personal details like this into a negotiation is oversharing and demonstrates a lack of professional boundaries.
Say this instead:
✅ “With my 8 years’ experience and skills in Accounting, I was aiming for KES.80,000. Is there anything we can do to get closer to that number?”
❌”This salary is too small to pay my rent, fair ticket, and sustain my life.”
Avoid discussing personal expenses as they can make the negotiation seem self-centered rather than value-driven.
Say this instead:
✅ “I’ve reviewed the compensation, and considering the scope and responsibilities of the position, along with industry standards, a salary of KES 95,000 would better align with my professional qualifications and the value I anticipate bringing to the team.”
❌”If I knew this was your offer, I wouldn’t have wasted my time coming.”
This statement can come off as disrespectful and may burn bridges.
Say this instead:
✅ “I appreciate your offer, though it’s quite different from what I was expecting based on the role’s requirements and industry norms. Can we discuss adjustments to the compensation package that reflect the complexity and demands of this position?”
❌”The salary is too little for the roles I will be doing.”
Although it’s important to negotiate based on role responsibilities, phrasing matters to maintain a constructive tone.
Say this instead:
✅ “Given the responsibilities outlined for this role and my professional expertise, I believe a compensation package closer to KES 100,000 would be more commensurate with the demands of the position. Let’s explore how we can make this offer work for both of us.”
❌ “Can we wrap this up quickly? I have another offer waiting.”
Rushing a negotiation can signal desperation and may reduce your bargaining power.
Say this instead:
✅ “I’m currently exploring a few opportunities, but I’m particularly interested in the role your company is offering. Can we discuss the compensation package that would make this a perfect fit for me?”
❌ “Is that the best you can do?”
Challenging an offer in this way can seem confrontational and may put the employer on the defensive.
Say this instead:
✅ “I appreciate your offer. Based on my experience and the industry standard for this role, I was anticipating a slightly higher range. Could we explore the possibility of a salary closer to KES 90,000?”
❌ “Sorry, but I really need more money.”
Apologizing in your negotiation makes your request seem like an imposition rather than a professional requirement.
Say this instead:
✅ “Thank you for the offer. Given my track record and the responsibilities of this position, I believe a salary of KES 95,000 would reflect the value I bring to your team. Could we discuss this further?”
❌ “I was expecting more based on the job description and what we discussed.”
This statement can be perceived as vague and lacking constructive feedback.
✅ Say this instead: “Thank you for your offer. Based on our discussions about the role and my understanding of the key responsibilities, I anticipated a different compensation package. Could we revisit the salary figure to better align it with the complexity of the tasks and the impact I am prepared to make?”
