How to Negotiate Prices, Bills and Your Salary (With Exact Scripts to Use)

It’s easy for people to say “just negotiate your bills” or “ask for a pay rise” like it’s no big deal. But if you’ve ever stared at your phone psyching yourself up for a call, or worried about sounding pushy, awkward or ungrateful, you’re not the only one!

One thing that can really help when you’re nervous is having a script. Not something robotic, just a few confident sentences you can lean on so you don’t freeze in the moment.

So that’s what this blog is: real-life negotiation scripts to help you get better deals, lower bills and be paid what you’re worth 💅

Let’s start with the easiest place to practise.

Negotiating your bills (energy, broadband, phone, insurance)

This works best when:
• your contract is ending
• your bill has gone up
• you’ve found a cheaper deal elsewhere

The key is showing you have options without being rude.

Script: when you’ve found a cheaper deal

“Hi, I’ve been a customer for X years and I’ve noticed my price has gone up. I’ve seen that [another company] is offering the same service for £X per month. Is there anything you can do to match or beat that so I can stay with you?”

If they say no straight away:

“I’d really prefer not to switch, but the price difference is quite big for me. Is there anything else available – discounts, loyalty offers or a cheaper tariff?”

Script: when your bill suddenly increases

“I’ve just had my new bill through and it’s gone up by £X. That’s not something I can afford right now. Are there any cheaper plans or reductions you can apply?”

Script: when you’re at contract renewal

“My contract is ending and I’m reviewing my options. Before I decide to leave, I wanted to check if you have any better deals available for existing customers.”

Once you’ve lowered your bills, putting that extra money towards your goals makes a huge difference. Find out how to build momentum and crush them one by one here. 

Negotiating big purchases (cars, furniture, home improvements)

This is where people often forget negotiation is normal, but sellers expect it.

Script: for quotes (builders, renovations, services)

“Thanks for the quote. I’ve had a few others come in slightly lower. Is there any flexibility in the price at all?”

or

“If I went ahead this month, would you be able to offer a better rate?”

Script: in shops or online chats

“I really like this, but it’s slightly above my budget. Is there any discount available right now?”

or

“Are there any upcoming offers or promo codes I could use?”

You’d be surprised how often the answer is yes.

Btw, big costs are much easier to negotiate when you’re planning for them in advance – this is where sinking funds come in.

Negotiating rent

This works especially well at renewal time.

Script: when renewing your lease

“I’ve really enjoyed living here and I’d love to stay, but with the cost of living rising I’m finding the rent increase difficult. Would you consider keeping the rent at the current amount if I renew for another year?”

or

“I’ve looked at similar properties in the area and some are priced lower. Is there any flexibility on the rent?”

Worst case they say no. Best case you save hundreds (or thousands). 

Negotiating your salary

We have a full step-by-step guide on negotiating your pay (you can read it here), but here are the quick foundations:

Before you ask:
• Benchmark your salary – what do people in similar roles with your experience earn?
• Write down proof of your impact – results, wins, extra responsibility
• Pick a natural moment (annual review, hitting milestones, after a big success)

Script: asking for the meeting

“Hi [Name], I’d love to book some time to talk about my role, performance and progression. I’ve really enjoyed the last X months and would appreciate a chance to discuss my salary and next steps.”

Script: during the meeting

“Based on my performance over the last X months, the additional responsibilities I’ve taken on, and market rates for similar roles, I’d like to discuss increasing my salary to £X.”

If they push back:

“I understand there may be constraints right now. What would I need to achieve to make this possible in the next review cycle?”

Important: don’t lead with “rent is expensive” or “I’m struggling”. Make sure to focus on your value, impact and market rates.

Negotiating is one of the fastest ways to lower your outgoings, but it works even better when you know exactly where your money is going. Here’s your complete guide to budgeting on payday.

Negotiation isn’t about being pushy, it’s about advocating for yourself

As your Big Money Sister, we want to assure you you’re not being difficult, you’re being smart with your money. Companies expect negotiation and prices are rarely fixed.

We swear, the more you practise, the easier it gets.

Start with a phone bill, then try insurance, then one day you’ll be confidently asking for thousands more in salary.

Future-you will be very grateful for this Bad B*tch Energy.