When people ask if women in the workforce can “have it all”, reactions will vary. This is definitely an interesting debate, but most wouldn’t consider it to be breaking news. While this is the case, the evolving dilemma of balancing family and career while maintaining a sense of fulfillment has taken the spotlight. From Facebook’s COO, Sheryl Sandberg, just releasing her book “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead” to Yahoo’s CEO Marissa Mayer returning to work just a week after giving birth, there is a major buzz. So why is this issue becoming such a prevalent discussion?
Women are climbing the corporate ladder and are rightfully demanding both the respect of their male peers and appropriate financial compensation from their employers. Due to this, women seeking to negotiate their salaries need to be prepared. “Having it all” still poses a challenge because many men (and some women who do not have to balance family and career), are reluctant to view women as equals and feel that they are not qualified for a raise because of their familial priorities. Those who incorrectly assume that women with families are incapable of performing to their best ability need a wake-up call. The best form of this being a meeting with a woman who possesses salary savvy negotiation skills.
CommCore Consulting Group, a leader in effective communication skills, provides speaker and presentation tools which will enhance your confidence and provide structure to your argument. Here are a few basic skills women can rely on when negotiating their salary:
· Know your audience and what is important to them
· Trim the basis of your argument down to the essential points you need to make
· Anticipate questions your employer may ask you
· Memorize your opening statement
· Cite specific examples of why you deserve this (i.e. a lead on a successful project)
· Emphasize your key messages through repetition
· Avoid making negative statements referring to past experiences, behavior of colleagues (this is about you and why you deserve this; it is not a contest with your co-workers)
· Close with a positive statement