I have something a little embarrassing to admit: I’ve never negotiated a job offer. I know, I know. I’ve heard the advice a thousand times, and I’m sure you have too: Do your research. Know your non-negotiables. Practice what you’re going to say. But every time I’ve been at the so-called “negotiation table,” I panic. I have a few guesses as to why: I’m a generally anxious person. I get nervous when I have to ask someone where the bathroom is — never mind ask someone to give me money. Looking for a job is a long, tiresome process. By the end of it, I’m usually so happy to have been offered a job at all that I don’t really care about what the offer letter says. I have a hard time valuing my work. Maybe it’s a confidence thing. Maybe it’s a “well I’m still going to get paid 30 cents less than my male colleagues” thing. Either way, it’s hard. I’m getting better at asking for what I want, both at work and in life. But I think it will always be a challenge for me. The important thing is that I’m working on it. If you struggle with this as well, I hope you’re working on it too. Knowing and advocating for the value of your work is important. Negotiating your job offers to make sure they reflect your needs is important. And asking for a raise when you deserve one is important. At the end of the day, we all have to make money to live. And whether you hate your job or are passionate about it, the work you do will always be in service of that. Since we all now know that I’m not the expert on negotiating, here’s what the real experts have to say. Recommended Reads Christine vs. Work: How to Negotiate a Flexible Return to the Office by Christine Liu Many of those working from home during the pandemic are now being asked to return to the office. But how do you talk to your manager if you don’t want to go back in? This video shares five tips for negotiating flexible work. Don’t Let WFH Get in the Way of Your Next Promotion by Ben Laker, Will Godley, Yemisi Bolade-Ogunfodun, and Lebene Soga Have you been hoping for a promotion or a pay raise this year, but struggling to make the ask? This has been a challenge for many employees during the pandemic. But by staying connected with your manager, continuing to share your opinions and ideas, and compiling a list of your achievements, that promotion could be yours. Women Entering the Workforce — Here’s How to Get What You Want by Marisa Porges While self-advocacy is a skill that everyone should master, it is especially important for women who are just entering the workforce. This article includes three strategies that women can use to get ahead. Negotiating a Job Offer? Here’s How to Get What You Want. by Kristi DePaul Believe it or not, salary isn’t the only negotiable. You may be able to negotiate for more paid time off, a later start date, and even flexible work hours. Here’s how to ask for, and get, what you want. How to Negotiate as a Freelancer by by Andres Lares Negotiating deals with potential clients can be challenging for independent contractors. But freelancers who fail to negotiate well can miss potential revenue, delay the growth of their project portfolio, and lose future opportunities that often come in through referrals and successful client relationships. If you are a freelancer or independent contractor, we have a few tips that may help. Like what you see? This article is adapted from our weekly newsletter.
