Stop Telling Me Your Sob Stories to Bring Down the Cost
Just negotiate directly, we are all adults
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As a software developer in Singapore with decades of experience, I’ve heard it all. From “It’s just a small app” to “We’re a startup trying to make it big!” — clients have come to me with tales so dramatic, they could rival a Netflix series. While I understand everyone has a budget, there’s something we need to address: using sob stories to negotiate lower costs isn’t the way to build a successful relationship with your developer.
It’s Not Personal, It’s Just Business
I get it. Starting a business or creating a new project is stressful, and budgets are tight. But software development is a professional service, not a charity event. Imagine walking into a high-end restaurant and saying, “I’m having a tough week — can you give me a discount on that steak?” Chances are, you’ll get a polite but firm “no.”
As developers, we’re not just coding; we’re problem-solvers, creators, and sometimes miracle workers. The cost reflects the time, expertise, and effort we put into your project. Undervaluing that by sharing your financial woes doesn’t make the work any easier — it just makes the conversation awkward.
