The Most Highly Requested Negotiation Questions

The Art of Negotiation

1. How do I negotiate a higher salary?

Negotiating a higher salary starts before you ever say a word. Which makes sense right, you need to know what you want (specifically) in order to get it confidently.

Your preparation is the pitch. Knowing your market value is key and the way to demonstrate this is to stack up proof points that demonstrate your results, wins, client impact. You need to show the outcomes of your skill, the value you bring.

Then shift your mindset: this isn’t a plea, it’s a business conversation about value exchange.

Start in with:

• A number anchored in evidence.

• Clear wins that tie directly to revenue or performance.

• A calm, confident tone that says “I know in what I bring to the table.”

  
  

This combo and your belief is contagious. If you walk in like someone worth more, people will feel it.

Remember: the first domino of every raise is belief backed by preparation.

2. What’s the best way to ask for a raise?

Never ask for it. Offer a value exchange.

Reframe the ask as: “Here’s the measurable impact I’ve made. Here’s how I can deliver even more. What would it take to align my compensation with the level I’m operating at?”

You’ve got to control the energy of the conversation. Lead with certainty, not neediness. Raise your standards, not your volume.

And don’t wait for annual reviews. Momentum favours the proactive. Show up with data, confidence, and a clear future value plan. That’s how leaders get compensated.

3. How can I negotiate remote work or flexible hours?

Flexibility is earned through trust, not demanded through preference. If you want remote or flexible work, lead with proof: show how your performance excels without supervision, how you overdeliver, and how you make your team stronger — wherever you are.

Frame it as:“Here’s how I’ve produced results in remote settings. Here’s how I plan to stay visible, accountable, and drive outcomes.”

Don’t talk about what’s convenient for you. Talk about how your flexibility fuels productivity and impact.Lead with results, not reasons.

In negotiation, position matters. And if your position is “I make life easier for you while crushing my role” — it’s hard to say no to that.

4. How can I improve my negotiation skills?

The best negotiators don’t rely on charm — they prepare like snipers. They study the other side, set anchors, anticipate objections, and know when to push and when to pivot.

To level up:

• Start every negotiation by writing down your goal, BATNA.

• Practice emotional control — pause, breathe, respond.

• Study body language and tone — not just theirs, but yours.

• Use silence as a weapon. Most people can’t handle it. You must.

Negotiation isn’t a script. It’s a mindset. It’s knowing that your preparation, energy, and ability to lead the conversation are your real leverage.

5. What is a “BATNA” and do I really need one?

Yes. You need a BATNA like a parachute. It stands for Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement — in simple terms, your Plan B if this deal dies.

Here’s the truth: Your BATNA determines your confidence. If you don’t know what you’ll do if they walk, you’ll fold. If you do know your backup plan, you can negotiate with power — not fear.

Tim Castle style: Don’t just “have” a BATNA. Build one.

• Line up another offer.

• Secure another client.

• Prepare an alternative path. This gives you freedom. And freedom is the ultimate leverage.

  
  

Remember: You negotiate best when you want the deal, but don’t need it.