3 Powerful Negotiation Walk Away Phrases to Get Better Deals

Sometimes a deal is bad for your business. Here are 3 negotiation walk away phrases that can turn the tables and help you get a better deal.
negotiation walk away phrases

How do you walk away from sales negotiations and still get the deal? Here are 3 negotiation walk away phrases I’ve used that work more often than you might think:

First, you must know your “walk away” point.

This is a set of deal terms that are not acceptable to you – it’s your rock bottom price, customer support policies, etc.

Negotiation Walk Away Phrases

When you reach your walk away point, consider using one of these approaches to send a clear message to your prospect that you can’t do the deal they want.

Watch this 2-minute video to learn what to say, how to say it, and when to say it. These phrases can help you win over a prospect and get a deal that is more acceptable for your business.

Soft Approach

  • I would really like to make this deal work. I’m sure you would agree that it’s got to work for both of us.
  • Here’s the thing: we’re going to lose money if we move forward with the terms you’re requesting.
  • We wouldn’t be able to provide you with the level of quality and service that we have a reputation for providing to our clients.
  • So if these are the terms you need to make the deal happen, then we’re not the right company for you.
  • If you have any additional flexibility, let me know. Thanks for considering us.

Medium Approach

  • I’m trying hard to earn your business, but I can’t do it at the terms you’re asking for.
  • I’m afraid we’re going to have to bow out.
  • I wish you well in finding the right vendor to make your project successful. Thanks for considering us.

Firm Approach

  • We’re not a fit for what you’re looking for in terms of rates (or customer support, etc.). Thanks for your interest.

The key here is to use these phrases at the walk-away point and truly be willing to walk away. Some deals are just bad for you. These negotiation walk away phrases are designed to put the brakes on a bad deal in a polite way and turn the tables to score a better deal for you.


Author: Raj Khera, Leadership and Executive Coach, Publisher of MoreBusiness.com

Like this? Share it with your network:

I need help with:

Got a Question?

Get personalized expert answers to your business questions – free.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a commission if you decide to purchase something using one of our links at no extra cost to you.