Negotiation is more than just business in Nigeria; it’s an art form. There, your ability to talk to people, your sense of humor, and your emotional intelligence are all tested at the same time. From Abuja decorators to tailors in Lagos, vendors have heard it all. And if you say something stupid, your “discount” could go away faster than small chops at an owambe.
Don’t worry, though; you can still get a good deal without making your vendors mad, or sounds like a Simpsons joke. Here are 10 things you should never say to Nigerian vendors when you’re trying to make a deal, along with what you should say instead.
NotJustEvent can also help you get in touch with vendors, deal professionally, and avoid all of this drama.
10 Things You Shouldn’t Tell Nigerian Vendors
We asked vendors across Nigeria what phrases instantly raise their blood pressure and their prices. From “Money is not the problem” to “You’ll get exposure,” here’s how to negotiate smarter and avoid common mistakes that ruin good deals.
- “Money is not the problem.”
Really? You could wear a shirt that says “Please charge me more.” In Nigeria, the vendor’s computer will add new numbers as soon as you say this. When an incentive is taken away, prices go up, like the price of gas.
Say instead: “I’m working with a budget range. What can you offer within it?”
Why this works: The vendor will know that you’re serious but not careless by this phrase. You’ve set limits, but you’re also willing to talk about them. It makes you look reasonable and responsible with your money, which gets you more respect and usually leads to better deals.
You can look at clear vendor prices on NotJustEvent before you even talk to them. There are no high “special customer” prices; the prices are clear and honest.
- “Just do it for me now, we’ll settle later.”
This line has broken more hearts than broken wedding promises. Selling things in Nigeria is hard to trust, and for good reason. This town lost too many people who said, “We’ll settle later.” faster than the network signal could reach them.
Say instead: “Can I pay a deposit to secure your service?”
Why this works: You show loyalty while keeping your money safe. It builds trust between you and the vendor. You show that you’re serious, and they know that you’ll pay.
You can make safe milestone payments with NotJustEvent, which is good for both you and the vendor. There are no stories that move me.
- “My friend said you charged them less.”
The comparison line is sure to make any vendor roll their eyes. “Did your friend also tell you how much work I did for them?” is likely what they’ll say.
Say instead: “Can you explain what’s included in this package?”
Why this works: You don’t sound hostile; instead, you sound interested and efficient. To help you decide what’s worth the money, you ask the vendor to explain why their price is what it is. Sometimes, they’ll even include things to impress you.
With NotJustEvent, you get full vendor profiles and packages right away, so you don’t have to guess or compare based on rumors.
- “I can get someone cheaper.”
You’ve just turned the talk into a competition, which could mean your vendor doesn’t respect you anymore. Threats bother Nigerian vendors a lot. They will gladly tell you to “go meet them” if you can “get someone cheaper.”
Say instead: “I’ve seen other quotes. Can we find a middle ground?”
Why this works: It shows that you know what you’re talking about and still value their service. This line keeps the tone friendly and cooperative, which makes the vendor more open to fair negotiations.
With NotJustEvent, you can see quotes from several vendors in one place and pick the best one without sounding like you’re in a fight.
- “Abeg, just manage it like that.”
Providers hear “I don’t value your work” when you say “manage it.” It sounds like you’re asking for poor service because no worker wants to “manage.”
Say instead: “Let’s figure something out that works for both of us.”
Why this works: It makes communication polite and business-like. You respect their understanding while still trying to find a balance. This method often gets vendors to go the extra mile. You can hire professionals through NotJustEvent who are proud of their work and value quality. There is no need for “managing.”
- “You’ll get exposure from my event.”
The old “I can’t pay you, but I’ll get your name out there” trick. This line has been heard by Nigerian vendors since 2003, and it doesn’t pay the rent.
Say instead: “I have a limited budget; can we work on a smaller package?”
Why this works: You’re being honest about your money bounds and recognizing their worth. This method usually gets you a cheaper package without coming off as greedy.
NotJustEvent lets you find vendors who are willing to work with your exact budget, so you don’t have to make empty promises about “exposure” that won’t set off anyone’s alarm.
- “You know I’m your brother/sister na.”
This trick to get what you want only lasts a short time. The vendor will finally say, “Even Jesus paid taxes.” Business is business, family or not.
Say instead: “Can you give me a family discount if possible?”
Why this works: It’s kind, humble, and doesn’t ask for anything in return. You are giving the vendor some freedom to make a choice. People are more likely to give that “family price” if they feel valued.
Negotiations with NotJustEvent are always done in a professional way. There is no weird “we’re family” pressure; just fair prices and respect for each other.
- “We’ll talk about the price after the event.”
This one? Not safe. Often, that “after” talk turns into a fight, a breakup, or public drama. You’ll also suddenly forget things when vendors start chasing you after the event.
Say instead: “Let’s finish up and write down everything now.”
Why this works: It makes people responsible. Having all the details worked out before the event keeps people from misunderstanding each other and makes sure everyone knows what to expect. That’s a sign of a good customer.
With NotJustEvent, you get digital contracts that spell out prices, tasks, and payment terms in a way that is easy to understand. “I believed you said…”
- “It’s just small work now.”
It seems small to you. For the vendor, it’s hours of work, tools, planning, and sweat. The fastest way to lose their attention is to play down their work.
Say instead: “I know it’s a big job, can we discuss what can fit into my budget?”
Why this works: It shows that you care. You’re recognizing the work that needs to be done, which makes the vendor more likely to change their offer out of kindness instead of anger.
With NotJustEvent, you can look over service details, see how much work needs to be done, and deal in a realistic way, knowing how skilled the vendor is.
- “You people like money too much!”
Congratulations, you just made their whole job look bad. Nigerians enjoy a good laugh, but not when it gets in the way of their work. Everyone, including vendors, just wants to be paid fairly for their time.
Say instead: Let’s see how we can make this affordable for both sides.”
Why this works: It gets rid of criticism and brings people together. No longer are you accusing; now you’re working together to reach a common goal. When you act in this way, you often get savings and better service.
Negotiations with NotJustEvent are done politely and professionally, which makes everyone happy and keeps your event stress-free.
The right words can save you stress, money, and relationships. With NotJustEvent, you don’t have to learn the hard way; every deal is clear, fair, and drama-free. Plan smart, spend wisely, and enjoy your big day without the vendor wahala.
How to Be Smarter in Negotiations (Without Getting Mad)
In Nigeria, negotiating is like dancing: you need to keep the beat, show respect, and know when to move. Make a face. Don’t rush. Thank them for their work. When your tone is friendly and sure of yourself, the price will drop very fast.
If all of this sounds like too much trouble, NotJustEvent is here to help. You don’t have to bargain or fight over puff-puff and centerpieces because the platform connects you with verified vendors, digital contracts, and clear prices.
Conclusion
Words are important in the end. If you say something wrong, the vendor might double their price, or even worse, they might get angry. But if you negotiate with respect, fun, and the right tools, everything goes more smoothly than a wedding dance that has been practiced for hours.
If you’re about to say, “Money is not the problem,” stop, smile, and think again. It might be the problem.
You don’t have to haggle like you do in Balogun market when you use NotJustEvent. From vendor prices to contracts, everything is clear, fair, and easy. People will remember your event for the right reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happens if I say “money is not the problem” to a vendor?
Vendors may assume you have no spending limit and increase their prices. It’s better to mention a specific budget range so they can suggest options within your means.
- Can I still negotiate if I’m using NotJustEvent?
Absolutely. You can compare quotes, message vendors directly, and agree on terms. The difference is that everything is documented and transparent; no hidden fees or verbal confusion.
