Salary Negotiation Scripts for Singaporeans Exact Phrases to Get a Raise

In Singapore culture, talking about money is often considered taboo or "paiseh" (embarrassing). Many employees work hard, hoping their boss will notice and magically reward them. The reality? If you don't ask, the answer is always no.

Salary negotiation is not about being greedy; it is a business transaction. It is about knowing your market value and communicating it professionally. However, finding the right words—especially in English—can be terrifying. One wrong phrase can make you sound entitled or aggressive.

This guide provides exact, "copy-paste" English scripts tailored for the Singapore corporate context, helping you ask for what you deserve with confidence.

Section 1: The Preparation (Before You Speak)

Never enter a negotiation without data.

1. Know Your Worth: Check salary guides (Robert Walters, Michael Page, Hays) for your role in Singapore.
2. Know Your Wins: List 3-5 specific achievements from the last year (e.g., "Increased sales by 20%," "Saved the company $10k in logistics").

Section 2: Scenario A - The Annual Performance Review

This is the most natural time to ask.

The Opening Script:

• "Thank you for the feedback on my performance. I'm really proud of what we've achieved this year, specifically [Achievement 1] and [Achievement 2]. Based on these results and the current market rate for my role, I would like to discuss adjusting my salary to [Target Amount]."

Why it works: It connects the raise directly to performance, not need.

If they say "Maybe next time":

• "I understand budget constraints are tight. However, could we agree on a timeline or a set of KPIs? If I hit [Goal X] by [Date], could we revisit this conversation?"

Section 3: Scenario B - Getting a New Job Offer

You have the most leverage here.

The "Expected Salary" Question:

• Recruiter: "What is your expected salary?"
• You: "Based on my research and the responsibilities of this role, I am looking for a range between $[Min] and $[Max]. However, I am flexible depending on the full compensation package."

Countering a Low Offer:

• "Thank you for the offer. I am very excited about the team. However, looking at the package, the base salary of $[Offer] is slightly below my expectations. Given my experience in [Skill X], I was hoping to be closer to $[Target]. Is there any room for movement there?"

Why it works: It is polite ("Thank you/Excited") but firm ("However/Hoping").

Section 4: Scenario C - Asking Ad-Hoc (No Review Scheduled)

The Setup:

• "Hi [Boss Name], do you have 15 minutes this week? I'd like to schedule a short meeting to discuss my career progression and compensation."

The Pitch:

• "I've been with the company for [Time], and in that time, my role has expanded to include [New Responsibilities]. I've also successfully managed [Project]. I believe my current salary doesn't fully reflect these new contributions. I'd like to request a review to bring me in line with the market rate of $[Amount]."

Section 5: Handling Objections (The "No")

In Singapore, bosses often deflect. Here is how to handle standard objections.

Objection 1: "The economy is bad." / "No budget."

• Response: "I completely understand the macro environment. If a salary increase isn't possible right now, could we consider other components? Perhaps a one-time performance bonus, additional annual leave, or flexible work arrangements?"

Objection 2: "You are already paid well compared to others."

• Response: "I appreciate that. My request is based on my individual performance and the value I bring to this specific projects, rather than a comparison with peers. I believe my results with [Project X] justify this adjustment."

Objection 3: "Let's talk in 6 months."

• Response: "That sounds fair. Can we put that in writing? I'd like to set specific goals now so that in 6 months, if I've delivered, the path to an increase is clear."

Section 6: Vocabulary for Negotiation

• Market Rate: The average salary for your job.
• Compensation Package: Salary + Bonus + Benefits (Insurance, Leave).
• Increment: Raise.
• Performance-Based: Tied to results.
• Leverage: Your power in the negotiation (e.g., another job offer).

Section 7: Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. The "Sob Story": "I need a raise because my rent went up."
   • Why: The company pays for value, not your expenses.
2. The Threat: "Give me a raise or I quit."
   • Why: Unless you are ready to walk out immediately, never make an ultimatum. It burns bridges.
3. The "Ambush": Asking when the boss is stressed or rushing.
   • Why: Timing is everything. Schedule a proper meeting.

Conclusion

Negotiating your salary is a skill, just like Excel or public speaking. It gets easier with practice. By using these scripts, you remove the emotion and focus on the business case. Remember, your employer expects you to negotiate. A professional, well-justified request shows that you value your own work—and if you value it, they will too.