Do you find it hard to ask for what you are 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?
Women struggle with negotiations more than men. According to gender stereotypes, women are expected to be warm and communal. To avoid being seen as pushy, aggressive, or less likeable, many women hesitate to negotiate.
But women who consistently negotiate their salaries earn more than those who don’t negotiate. You will make a better impression at work if you negotiate. As the former COO of RYCOR, I made job offers to every new employee and always expected the employee to negotiate for more.
The gender pay gap is persistent. In 2022, the average woman earned just 82 cents for every dollar earned by a man in the US. This needs to change at the corporate and societal level. But, by learning to negotiate, women can avoid leaving money and other benefits on the table.
How can you become a better negotiator?
- Know your worth: understand your strengths, experiences, and accomplishments. Quantify your achievements to showcase your value to the employer.
- Do your research: look at industry standards, company salaries, and the cost of living in your area. This knowledge gives you a solid foundation for your negotiation.
- Be prepared: practice negotiating in low-stakes situations to get more comfortable. Anticipate pushback and script out your responses. Role-play the negotiation with a friend, coach, or mentor.
- Make the first offer: research shows that you will get a higher final amount if you make the first offer.
- Aim high: ask for an amount higher than your ideal pay. You can always come down, but it’s harder to go up.
- Consider the entire package: your salary isn’t the only component of a compensation package. Factor in benefits, vacation time, bonuses, remote work options, professional development opportunities, and more.
- Be communal: understand the perspective of your negotiating partner. Avoid “I” statements and use “we” statements instead. Make the case for why it’s in your company’s best interest to pay you more. Use positive emotions to promote creative thinking and cooperation.
- Be assertive and confident: use assertive language to convey your expectations while remaining respectful, professional, and empathic. Remember, you’re advocating for yourself and your future.
What stops you from asking for what you are worth? Spend some time reflecting on what is holding you back. You will never get what you don’t ask for.
Looking for a confidence boost to help you with that next negotiation? Book your free Confidence Booster session here: https://calendly.com/annagradiecoaching/45min
Lots of love,
-Anna
