Do you find it hard to ask for what you’re worth in a salary negotiation? Do you accept job offers at face value without trying to negotiate? Do you stop yourself from asking for that raise or promotion?
Many women struggle with negotiation, often fearing they’ll come across as too pushy or aggressive. But here’s the reality: women who consistently negotiate their salaries earn significantly more over time than those who don’t 💡
As the former COO of RYCOR, I made job offers to every new employee—and I always expected them to negotiate. It left a strong impression when they did. Yet, many women hesitate to ask for more, leaving money and benefits on the table.
The art of negotiation—lessons from a souvenir shop in Mexico 🏖️
Recently, while in Mexico, I bartered for souvenirs. I set a firm budget, knew my ideal price, and was fully prepared to walk away. And guess what? It worked. I stood my ground and walked away with the perfect souvenirs without overpaying 🎁
This experience reinforced a core negotiation principle: you have more power than you think. Whether you’re bargaining at a market, or negotiating a six-figure salary, the same strategies apply.
How to become a better negotiator
✅ Know your worth: understand your strengths, achievements, and market value. Quantify your impact so you can confidently articulate why you deserve more.
✅ Do your research: look up industry salary benchmarks, company pay trends, and the cost of living in your area. Knowledge is power.
✅ Practice in low-stakes situations: try negotiating in everyday life—like bartering on vacation or asking for an upgrade. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become.
✅ Make the first offer: research shows that those who anchor the conversation with an initial number often get better final offers.
✅ Aim high: ask for more than your ideal salary. You can always adjust down, but it’s much harder to negotiate up.
✅ Consider the full package: salary is just one piece. Negotiate vacation time, bonuses, remote work flexibility, stock options, and professional development opportunities.
✅ Use collaborative language: frame the conversation as a win-win. Use “we” statements to show how your compensation benefits both you and the company.
✅ Be prepared to walk away: just like in that souvenir shop, walking away is sometimes your best leverage. If an offer doesn’t meet your expectations, be willing to explore other opportunities.
Ask for what you deserve
What stops you from negotiating? Fear of rejection? Worry about how you’ll be perceived? Take some time to reflect on what’s holding you back. The truth is, you’ll never get what you don’t ask for 🚨
If you need a confidence boost before your next big negotiation, let’s talk.
📅 Book a free Clarity Call with me today, and let’s strategize your next negotiation!
Lots of love,
-Anna
