Pricing pushback is normal. This prompt gives you negotiation language that holds the line, offers smart alternatives, and doesn’t make you sound like a jerk.
Works Best With: ChatGPT | Also works with: Claude
The Prompt
Write a pricing negotiation response. Situation: – What we quoted: [$AMOUNT] – Their counter: [$AMOUNT or REQUEST] – Our walkaway price: [$MINIMUM] – Why our price is fair: [VALUE JUSTIFICATION] Flexibility options: – Can we adjust scope? [YES/NO + WHAT] – Can we adjust timeline? [YES/NO + HOW] – Can we offer payment terms? [YES/NO + OPTIONS] Tone: firm but collaborative Structure: 1) Acknowledge their position 2) Restate value without being defensive 3) Offer 2-3 alternative paths 4) Make them choose or propose back 5) Keep the door open
When to Use This Prompt
- A client says ‘your price is too high’
- You’re negotiating a salary or freelance rate
- You need to hold your pricing without sounding inflexible
- You want to offer options without discounting randomly
What You’ll Get
You’ll get a response that acknowledges their concern without apologizing, reinforces value tied to pricing, offers 2-3 structured alternatives, puts the decision back on them, and keeps momentum going.
Why This Prompt Works
• No immediate discount: Dropping price fast signals it was inflated
• Options vs discounts: Lets them choose scope/timeline trade-offs
• Value reinforcement: Reminds them what they get, not just what it costs
• Collaborative framing: ‘Let’s find what works’ vs ‘take it or leave it’
How to Customize This Prompt
- [VALUE JUSTIFICATION] — Be specific: ‘includes 3 rounds of revisions, 2-week turnaround’
- [FLEXIBILITY] — Only offer what you can actually deliver
- [WALKAWAY PRICE] — Know your minimum before the conversation
- [ALTERNATIVES] — Smaller scope, longer timeline, phased approach
Pro Tips
• Anchor high: First number sets expectations; don’t lowball yourself
• Silence is a tool: After proposing alternatives, stop talking and let them respond
• Get it in writing: Once terms are agreed, send a confirmation email immediately
• Track patterns: If you’re getting the same objection repeatedly, your positioning needs work
