Cut the fluff, keep your power. If you’re still saying “I’m not sure,” you’re already losing.

Let’s Talk Real: You Can’t Afford to Fumble the Bag

Negotiation. That word alone makes some of us start sweating. But here’s the truth: whether you’re asking for more coins at your 9-to-5, negotiating freelance rates, or simply shutting down a lowballer on Facebook Marketplace, the stakes are high and your words matter. And too often, we’re using language that quietly chips away at our value.

We’re taught to be nice. To be liked. To be “reasonable.” But let’s get something straight—being polite doesn’t mean you have to sound unsure or sell yourself short. So today, we’re burning three sneaky little phrases that are wrecking your negotiating power. Right now. Forever. Let’s go.

1. “I’m Not Sure…”

Translation: “I don’t believe in myself, but feel free to lowball me anyway.”

This is the verbal equivalent of shrinking into your chair and disappearing into the wallpaper. Saying “I’m not sure” in a negotiation tells the other person, “I’m not confident in what I bring to the table.” And if you’re not confident, why should they be?

Let’s flip it. Confidence isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about owning your curiosity and framing your concerns as strength.

Instead of:

“I’m not sure if this offer is right for me.”

Say:

“I’m very interested in this opportunity. I’d love to get more insight into [specific concern]. Can you walk me through how that’s handled here?”

That sounds like someone who knows their worth and isn’t afraid to dig deeper. That sounds like you, upgraded.

2. “This Is My Bottom Line”

Translation: “I’m boxed in and easy to corner.”

We get it. You’ve got a magic number in your head. But leading with a “bottom line” takes away your wiggle room. Once you draw that line, you better be ready to walk—because the other side might call your bluff.

Negotiation is a dance, not a standoff. You want enough flex to feel firm but approachable. Offering a range makes you sound informed, open, and strategic AF.

Instead of:

“My bottom line is $85K.”

Say:

“I’m targeting a salary in the $85K–$95K range. Given my experience with [insert power skill here], I’m confident we can find a number that reflects that value.”

You’re not just name-dropping a number—you’re showing receipts. Back it up, stand tall, and let them know you didn’t come to play.

Placeholder: [Insert side-by-side image of “bottom line” vs “value range” negotiation responses]

3. “I’ll Have to Think About It”

Translation: “I don’t want to offend anyone, so I’m gonna ghost you in 24 hours.”

You should take time to consider any serious offer. But the way you ask for that time matters. Saying “I’ll have to think about it” leaves things in limbo and can make you seem disengaged—or worse, uninterested. That could be the excuse they need to pass you over and move on.

So say it like the thoughtful, strategic powerhouse you are.

Instead of:

“I’ll have to think about it.”

Say:

“I’m excited about the offer, and I want to take a little time to ensure it’s the right fit on both ends. Would it be okay if I circle back with you tomorrow afternoon?”

Boom. Respectful. Professional. And clear. You’ve just bought yourself time and shown you’re intentional, not indecisive.

Pro Tip: Your Body Talks Louder Than You Do

You could say all the right words, but if you’re nervously playing with your pen, looking at the floor, or slouching like you’d rather be anywhere else, you’ve already lost half the battle. Body language is part of the negotiation.

Here’s the checklist:

• Eye contact – Not creepy, just confident.

• Good posture – Shoulders back, chin up.

• Still hands – No fidgeting, no folding arms.

• Tone of voice – Firm, but approachable. You’re not yelling at your cousin; you’re making strategic moves.

Placeholder: [Insert image of confident body posture vs unsure body posture in a negotiation]

Let’s Be Clear: You’re Not Asking for a Favor

You’re not begging. You’re not hoping someone gives you a shot. You’re offering value, solving problems, and showing up with receipts. You’ve done the work. You’ve earned your seat—and now it’s time to talk like it.

By ditching these three soft-sabotaging phrases and walking into your next negotiation like it’s your boardroom (because it is), you’ll level up not just your paycheck but your entire mindset.

Let them meet the version of you who doesn’t apologize for showing up bold, prepared, and ready to get paid.

Quick Recap for the People in the Back:

• Cut “I’m not sure.” You are sure. You just want more information.

• Kill “This is my bottom line.” Offer a smart range instead.

• Avoid “I’ll have to think about it.” Buy yourself time with intention.

Want to Get Better at This?

Don’t just wing it. Start studying the art of negotiation like your livelihood depends on it—because sometimes, it does.

[Harvard Business Review – Negotiation Strategies]

[Forbes – Top Negotiation Mistakes Women Make]