A Business Negotiation Dialogue in English: Negotiating Software Services Example
The following dialogue presents a business negotiation between two professionals: Sarah, a Project Manager looking to purchase software services, and Tom, a Sales Manager.
As you read through their conversation, pay attention to the negotiation phrases that are commonly used in business discussions.
The dialogue is divided into four scenes, showing how a typical negotiation progresses from initial pricing discussions to final agreement.
Each scene shortly demonstrates different negotiation situations where these key business English phrases are naturally used.
Before you begin reading, make sure to study our full lesson on this topic: Negotiation Expressions Made Simple
Scene 1: Initial Meeting
Sarah (Project Manager): Hi Tom, thanks for meeting today. We're very interested in your software service.
Tom (Sales Manager): Great to hear that, Sarah! What aspects of our platform interest you most?
Sarah: Your project management features look excellent. However, we need to talk about the pricing.
Tom: Of course. The standard package is $5,000 per month for 100 users.
Sarah: That's a bit steep for us. Could you give me a ballpark figure for 50 users instead?
Tom: Let me run some numbers... roughly $3,000 per month.
Scene 2: Getting to Details
Sarah: I appreciate the quick estimate. Still, our bottom line for this project is $2,000 monthly.
Tom: I see. Well, what if we could meet halfway? Say, $2,500 for 50 users?
Sarah: That's getting closer. Could we include the premium support package at that price?
Tom: Premium support is usually an extra $500... but I might be able to work something out. What if we sign a 12-month contract?
Sarah: Now that could be a win-win situation. We get premium support included, you get a longer commitment.
Scene 3: Handling Obstacles
Tom: There's one thing though – the training would still be extra.
Sarah: That's a deal breaker for us. Training is essential for our team.
Tom: Let me think... If we include basic training but schedule it over two months instead of one, we could make it work.
Sarah: That sounds reasonable. Could I get back to you tomorrow after discussing with my team?
Tom: Of course! Take your time to review the numbers.
Scene 4: Closing
[Next day]
Sarah: Hi Tom. We've reviewed everything, and it looks good. Just to confirm:
- $2,500 monthly
- 50 users
- Premium support included
- Basic training included
- 12-month contract
Tom: That's correct. Shall we shake hands on it?
Sarah: Yes, I think we have a deal. Could you send over the contract for our legal team to review?
Tom: I'll have that to you by end of day. Really looking forward to working together!
