Saying “this is my price” at work
Why it can fall flat
“this is my price”
Hearing “This is my price” with nothing around it, the other person may take it as an ultimatum, since there is no reasoning and no invitation to respond. A better approach is to state the number plainly, show how you arrived at it, and keep the conversation open.
Say this instead
- 01
My fee for this project is $2,400. That covers the scope we discussed, and I can put the details in writing so we're both clear.
Client · Email
Send it with a quote, since the number comes first and is tied to a defined scope.
- 02
Based on the role and my experience, I'm looking for a fixed salary of ₹18 lakh a year. I'd like to know how that fits with your budget for the position.
Recruiter / HR · Email
Answer a salary question with it because it gives a number and invites a response.
- 03
Given my responsibilities and what I've delivered this year, I'd like my salary to be $72,000. Could we find time this week to talk it through?
Boss · Email
Bring it to a pay review, where it links the number to your work and asks for a conversation.
- 04
Hi Naomi, the price for the repair is $120, parts included. Let me know if you'd like me to book it in.
Customer · SMS
Text it to a customer who just needs the figure and a clear next step.
- 05
My rate for this kind of work is £450 a day. That's the figure I'm quoting for the dates you mentioned.
Client · Chat
Reply with it in chat when a client asks what you charge and wants a quick answer.
- 06
The cost for that request is $600, charged to your team's budget. That's based on the scope you described, so let me know if you want to proceed.
Coworker · Chat
Use it when another team requests work and you need to state the internal cost plainly.
- 07
Thanks for the counteroffer. $2,400 is the price for this scope, and I'm keeping to that figure. Let me know if you'd like to go ahead on that basis.
Client · Email
Send it after a request to lower the price, as it thanks them, holds the number and asks for a decision.
Examples
Hi Felix, Thanks for sending over the brief. For the website copy as described, my fee is $1,800, covering up to eight pages and two rounds of edits. If that works for you, I can send an invoice and start on Monday. Best regards, Anita
Hi Frankie, for the logo refresh my price is $500, with two rounds of changes included. If that works for you, I'll send the invoice today and start tomorrow.
What to avoid
- Skip adding “take it or leave it” or anything like it after the number, because it sounds like a threat.
- Apologizing for the figure or adding “sorry, but” weakens your position.
- A number with no mention of what it covers is harder to accept, so state the scope.
- A long defense of the price makes you look unsure, and one clear reason is enough.
- Capital letters or exclamation marks to stress the figure make the message feel pushy.