Women who negotiate with a script close measurably higher offers — one cohort study found 22% gains from structured asks alone. The words matter less than the structure carrying them.
Anchor with a range, not a number
"Based on market data and the scope, I am targeting $X–$Y" beats naming one figure. Put your walk-away at the bottom of the range so every outcome above it feels like their win too.
The three-sentence script
One: enthusiasm ("I am excited about this role"). Two: evidence ("In my last role I grew revenue 34%..."). Three: the ask ("To say yes, I would need..."). Evidence before ask is the entire game — it converts the request from bold to logical.
Never negotiate against yourself
When they pause, wait. Silence feels eternal at eight seconds and usually breaks in your favor. Never fill it with "but I am flexible" — flexibility is a concession you give away for free.
Negotiate the whole package
Base stuck? Move to signing bonus, review timeline (six months, not twelve), remote days, title, and learning budget. Total compensation has five levers — most people only pull one.
Pro tip
Rehearse out loud three times, once to a friend who pushes back. Scripts live in muscle memory, not in notes you will never open mid-call.
