Women's progression in society and workforce participation cannot be overstated. History has evidenced women coming out of their hospitals and homes and stepping out into the light of the workplace. But every woman still grapples with a scenario where, on average, women earn eighty-two cents for a dollar that men earn in the same position. This is not reasonable; hence it is high time we focused on what we are entitled to.
When it comes to salary negotiations, many women know heavy breast scars will prevent them from ever casting a shadow over the rest. Some cultural stereotypes and prejudices hinder many women from standing up for themselves. But guess what? It is possible to do so and even get a better end in such negotiations with a bit of planning and reasonable self-regard. Here are some helpful strategies women can use when negotiating their salary:
Knowing your worth will serve you well when negotiating your salary. Know the typical pay for the position, experience level, and geographical specifications. Sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and Salary.com serve essential and valuable purposes. Value for your money in the market will aid you in bargaining power.
In other situations, it is wise to avoid salary negotiations unless you are being recruited to a new job or promoted. Do not wait for your year-end appraisal, as the management might already have a budget for salary increments. Other than that, being objective with your employer’s financial health is good – this is especially useful if there is a recession.
When pushing for a salary hike, explain how much more they will pay you instead of discussing how much more they will earn with you in the organisation. Make success stories out of measurable parameters such as money earned, number of projects completed, resources saved, etc. This outlines your value and hence substantiates your figure for compensation.
It might not be the best thing to get into negotiations, but it becomes easier with practice. Pitch your proposal, try to predict what objections may arise, and practice with a partner if you have one. Confidence is very important; thus, the more ready you are, the more confident you will be in a negotiation.
More than just the salary can be a target for negotiation in a management position. Various benefit packages, like healthcare, retirement plans, holidays or changes, and training opportunities, can have an equally desirable attitudinal effect. Do not hesitate to request better company benefits.
Remember to stick to your salary expectations even when you find a job. It might sound scary, but it is necessary to keep your head up and not take a job that pays you less than you know you are worth. Just believe it, the right employee comes along one day, and you are fully equipped to cavort.
Women, when it comes to asking for a salary, can find it an arduous task, but it is an essential part of the process of resolving the gender pay gap once and for all. Therefore utilising facts, being confident in what one brings, and opening the compensation negotiation table determines that you will be paid fairly for your work. So, remember that it is up to you to make that negotiation to create a better future for everyone.