Role, offer, target. If they say X, I say Y - flowchart output.
Interview & prep
Negotiation script - if they say X, you say Y
Flowchart-style responses for the 6 most common objections in a Nigerian salary negotiation.
If they say: "This is our best offer."
The wall
I appreciate that. I want to be direct - the gap between your offer and what I need is not enormous. If you can move it by NGN [X] I can sign today. If not, I completely understand and we can leave things here amicably. But I would love to make this work.
Why it works: You avoid begging. You give a specific number that closes the deal. You give them the graceful exit if they truly cannot move.
If they say: "What are you currently making?"
The anchor trap
My current comp is a mix of factors specific to that role and does not directly compare. What matters is that this offer works for both of us. Based on the market for [role] with [X years] experience I am hoping for [target] - is that in range?
Why it works: Never anchor low with your current salary. Move immediately to a market-based number.
If they say: "We don't negotiate salaries at this level."
The policy shield
I understand every company has its constraints. Are there other levers we could look at - signing bonus, additional equity, learning budget, or an accelerated review at 6 months? Any of those would meaningfully close the gap for me.
Why it works: Move to non-cash levers. Most companies have policy flexibility on those even when base is fixed.
If they say: "The market is soft right now."
The market card
I have been tracking the market for [role] closely. Median for my level in [location] is [X]. My other conversations are also in that band. I want to be at market rather than a discount to it. Is there anything on your side that would let us hit that number?
Why it works: You show homework, not desperation. You do not need to have another offer to reference market data.
If they say: "Can you tell us your target number first?"
The reverse anchor
Happy to. Based on my research on [role] at [level] in [location], I am hoping for a base of NGN [X]. That is at the market median for my experience. What does the budget look like for this seat?
Why it works: Answer with a specific market-anchored number. Then bounce it back so they reveal budget too.
If they say: "We would offer more but you don't have exactly the right experience."
The gap objection
You would not have made me an offer if you thought I couldn't do the job. The gap you are pointing at is exactly what I would close in the first quarter. I can commit to specific milestones at 30, 60, 90 days if that helps.
Why it works: Reframe the objection as a plan. Turn a weakness into a mutual commitment.
How to actually deliver these lines
Read the scripts out loud until they sound like you, not like a template. Practise with a friend. In the call, pause after they speak - do not fill silence. State your line, then stop talking. The first person who talks after a hard number usually loses.