It’s still a fact that most professional women make less than their male peers. Women also tend to be underearners—consistently making less than they need or desire. That being said, most women would rather have a root canal than negotiate their salaries or ask for a raise. Most women are uncomfortable asking for money. Not only do they fear that their pay request will be rejected, but also that they’ll be viewed as overly aggressive. Unfortunately women’s fears about talking to their bosses about money are not totally unfounded.
A recent article in the New York Times “A Toolkit for Women Seeking a Raise” points out that stereotypes about women can hurt a woman’s ability to get a raise. It seems that a woman who asks for a raise is still viewed as “less attractive,” than her female co-worker who keeps her mouth shut.
The solution however isn’t to suffer in silence. According to the article, a new study concludes that women need to approach salary discussions differently than men. A woman, it suggests, should frame her raise requests in more indirect ways to avoid damaging her relationship with her boss. If it’s been more than a year and a half since you’ve had a pay increase…it’s probably time to gear up top ask for a raise. Harvard University associate professor Hannah Riley Bowles gives her suggestions on effective ways that women can negotiate a pay raise.
Be Proactive: Don’t expect that your boss is automatically thinking that you need a raise. It is your job to ask for it. Point out your contributions and find the best time to talk with your boss.
Be Prepared: Do your research and find out what your peers are being paid. Information is critical to getting a raise. Use web site such as Payscale.com and Salary.com to obtain information about what the average pay is for your position in your region. You can uses sites such as AtGlassdoor.com and Vault.com to find out salary information for specific companies. Don’t forget going to HR to find out the salary range for your position. Also talk with colleagues and peers, particularly men, about salaries in your field or industry. (I’ll add: Frame the pay increase in terms of a percentage rather than a flat number i.e. “I’m seeking a 10% percent salary increase.” rather than “I’m seeking a $10,000 pay raise.”)
Tailor Negotiations: Explain why your request is appropriate— focusing on the company’s good, rather than your own. According to the study, this strategy goes a long way in helping to maintain a good work relationship with your boss.
Anticipate: Anticipate objections and be prepared to address them. If you fail to get a raise this go-round, ask your boss for recommendations for what you could do to move to the next level of your job. This shows that you’re still in control and attempting to be a team player even in the face of rejection.
When it comes to getting more money….”Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” Research, preparation and clarity about what you want are critical tools to obtaining a needed raise.
