Context
Extending payment terms is not something we actively promote and should only be discussed if a prospect / client explicitly requests terms beyond our standard 10-day payment period. This option is available only when the prospect / client genuinely cannot meet the 10-day terms or the deal is dependent on this requirement.
The following talk track is designed as a reactive approach when a prospect / client objects to our standard payment terms. Our primary goal should always be to reinforce the value of our standard terms and encourage the prospect / client to align with them before exploring any extensions.
This talk track is intended for reactive use only and should not be proactively introduced to prospects unless they specifically raise the topic.
Talk Track
VERSION 1: SHORT (Quick Call Response)
Pillars: Transparency, Trust
I understand that payment terms are important. Our standard terms are 10 days because they keep everything running smoothly. If you are looking for an extension, could you let me know how many days you have in mind? I can then see whether it is something we can explore.
VERSION 2: MEDIUM (Standard Conversation)
Pillars: Transparency, Trust, Customer & Talent Experience
Thanks for raising this. Our standard 10 day payment terms are designed to keep your process simple and ensure a smooth experience for your talent. If you are looking for longer terms, could you share the number of days you are hoping for? In some cases, we can review an extension internally. It does come with an additional monthly cost, and approval depends on a few operational and financial factors. If you would like me to explore it for you, I can start that process.
VERSION 3: LONG (Full Narrative with Full Explanation)
Pillars: Transparency, Trust, Customer & Talent Experience
Thank you for bringing this up. Payment terms can have a real impact on your internal processes, so it makes sense that you would ask. Our standard 10 day terms are set to keep everything predictable for you and to ensure your talent experiences smooth, on time operations each month.
If you do require longer terms, could you tell me how many days you are considering? We can review requests like this, although they are handled on a case by case basis. Any approved extension comes with an additional cost because we are carrying the payroll exposure for a longer period. I want to be transparent about how the calculation works so you have the full picture.
The interest fee is based on the actual monthly payroll and service fee amounts we process on your behalf. It is not applied to the final settlement invoice amount itself. The current rate is 0.0275 percent per additional day beyond our 10 day terms. This rate follows the Deutsche Bundesbank interest rate and is reviewed twice per year.
For example, based on the H2 2025 rate: If your combined monthly payroll and service fees total €50,000 and you request 10 extra days, the calculation is 0.0275 percent per day. Over 10 days, that results in €137.50 for that month. Extended terms apply to all invoice types, including PFIs and deposits, though the interest appears only on the Settlement Invoice.
If you would like me to initiate the review, I am happy to take your requested terms forward and support you through the process.