Get Paid What You’re Worth: How to Negotiate Your Salary Like a Pro

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Photo Credit:Sheena

CAREER + MONEY

Get Paid What You’re Worth: How to Negotiate Your Salary Like a Pro

Think you’re overdue for a pay rise but not sure how to ask? Learn to advocate for yourself and secure the pay you deserve. Let’s close that gender pay gap—one conversation at a time.

BY HARRIET ISHBEL SWEENEY / 20 NOVEMBER 2024

Photo CrediSheena

When it comes to negotiating a better salary, many women find themselves hesitant or unsure of where to begin. It’s a common experience, shaped by societal norms and internal self-doubt. But here’s the truth: you deserve to be paid fairly for your skills, experience, and the value you bring to the table. Whether you’re asking for a pay rise or negotiating a starting salary, stepping into your power is essential.

know your worth and research thoroughly

The first step to negotiating effectively is knowing your value. Take the time to research industry benchmarks for your role, location, and experience level. Websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, or LinkedIn Salary Insights can provide insights into average salaries.

Tip: If your role involves specific skills or certifications, factor those into your research. Being well-informed will give you confidence and a clear basis for your negotiation.

believe in yourself and your contributions

It’s not just about the facts—it’s about your mindset. Women often downplay their achievements or feel like they’re “asking too much” when negotiating. Challenge this narrative by focusing on the tangible value you bring to your role.

Start a ‘Wins’ Journal: Document successes, projects, and results. Did you exceed targets? Save the company money? Bring in new clients? Keep these records handy to remind yourself why you deserve more.

time your request strategically

Timing can make all the difference in salary negotiations. Choose moments when your company is thriving, your manager is in a good headspace, or when you’ve recently delivered outstanding results.

Tip: Annual performance reviews are prime opportunities to discuss pay. However, don’t wait for a set date—if you’re ready to negotiate and the circumstances are right, initiate the conversation.

Photo Credit: Valerya Danilchenko

set boundaries and be clear about your needs

Negotiating a salary isn’t just about numbers—it’s about setting boundaries and articulating your worth.

Phrase Your Ask Assertively: Replace “I was hoping for” with “Based on my research and contributions, I believe a salary of £X is fair.”

Be Specific About Your Bottom Line: Know your minimum acceptable salary before entering negotiations, and be prepared to walk away if it isn’t met.

practice the conversation

Confidence comes with preparation. Practise your salary conversation with a trusted friend or mentor. Role-playing can help you refine your language, tone, and responses to potential counterarguments.

Tip: Focus on collaboration. For example, instead of demanding a specific figure, try: “I’d love to work together to ensure my compensation reflects the value I bring to the team.”

expect—and handle—pushback gracefully

Pushback is common in salary negotiations, so don’t take it personally. Employers may highlight budget constraints or offer a counteroffer. Prepare responses to common objections, such as:

Objection: “We don’t have the budget right now.”

Response: “I understand budgets are tight. Can we revisit this conversation in three months? In the meantime, could we explore non-monetary benefits, such as additional holiday days or flexible hours?”

Photo Credit: Valerya Danilchenko

be open to perks beyond pay

While the salary itself is crucial, additional benefits can also add significant value. If your employer can’t meet your salary expectations, consider negotiating for:

Extra holiday days
Flexible working arrangements
Professional development opportunities
Bonuses or commission structures

address imposter syndrome head-on

Imposter syndrome can creep in and sabotage your confidence. That voice that says, “Who do you think you are to ask for more?” needs to be silenced.

Mantra: “I am valuable. I deserve to be paid what I’m worth.”

Remind yourself that asking for a fair salary isn’t “greedy” or “selfish.” It’s professional.

celebrate the wins, no matter how small

Whether you land the exact figure you asked for or walk away with a new benefit package, celebrate your efforts. Negotiating takes courage, and every step forward is a win.

why women should advocate for better pay

Women negotiating better salaries isn’t just about personal growth—it’s a societal shift. When women advocate for themselves, it challenges systemic pay disparities and sets an example for others to follow.

By normalising conversations around pay, we can close the gender pay gap and create workplaces where women feel empowered to ask for what they deserve.

Negotiating a better salary requires preparation, confidence, and a belief in your worth. Remember: you’re not just asking for more money—you’re advocating for fairness and respect.

So take that first step. Whether it’s researching your market value, booking a meeting with your manager, or practising your negotiation pitch, every action moves you closer to the salary you deserve.

At Dandy, we believe in empowering women to set boundaries, stand up for themselves, and live authentically. Your career should reflect your worth—so go out there and own it!

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