Open with the number
Say the number in the first minute. Hinting makes your manager guess, and guesses come in low.
Opening
I'd like to discuss moving my salary to $82,000, based on the scope I own now.
When they say there's no budget
"No budget" is usually about timing, not your value. Ask for the date and the condition.
Reply
Understood. When does budget open, and what would need to be true for this number then?
Pause
Can we put that date in writing today?
When they say you're not ready yet
Make them define ready. Vague bars can never be cleared.
Reply
Help me make that concrete. What two things would show you I'm ready?
Pause
If I deliver those by March, is the raise approved?
Get your own three lines
Describe your situation. First script free, no card. Then $27 once for 60 days.
Build my free script