Preferirei mantenere questa conversazione strettamente riservata.

I would prefer to keep this conversation strictly confidential.

Pronunciation

'Strettamente' = stret-ta-MEN-te; stress on the third syllable; double 't'.

When to use it

Use at the start of the salary conversation to request privacy, particularly in companies where salary information is sensitive.

What it means

Salary confidentiality ('riservatezza') is extremely important in Italy. Colleagues discussing each other's salaries can create serious workplace tension. Asking for confidentiality protects you and signals to the manager that you are handling this professionally.

Variations

Le chiedo la massima discrezione su questo argomento.

I ask for maximum discretion on this topic.

'Massima discrezione' is a key Italian phrase for confidentiality

Preferisco che questa richiesta rimanga tra noi.

I prefer this request to remain between us.

Direct and simple

Come certamente capirà, la riservatezza è fondamentale.

As you will certainly understand, confidentiality is fundamental.

Appeals to shared understanding of professional norms

Mini Dialogue

Prima di iniziare, preferirei che questa conversazione rimanesse strettamente riservata. Non voglio che i colleghi ne siano a conoscenza, e sono certo/a che lei condivide questo approccio. Detto questo, ecco cosa volevo discutere con lei.

Before starting, I would prefer this conversation to remain strictly confidential. I do not want colleagues to be aware of it, and I am sure you share this approach. Having said that, here is what I wanted to discuss with you.

Cultural Note

In Italy, discussing your salary with colleagues is generally considered inappropriate and can violate implicit company norms. Some employment contracts even include confidentiality clauses about pay. Always assume salary discussions should be private.

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Torno a proporle l'argomento come avevamo concordato.

Invierò la mia richiesta anche per iscritto, se lo ritiene utile.

← All phrases: Asking for a Raise