Powerfully Negotiate Pay Raises.
Why Your Salary is More Than Just a Number
When it comes to pay raises and promotions, negotiating for fair compensation isn’t just about the money—it’s about recognition, power, and influence. Women still earn only 82 cents for every dollar earned by men, with an even wider gap for women of color. Your salary is not just a paycheck; it’s a statement of your worth.
Advocating for yourself isn’t just about closing your own gap—it’s about setting a precedent. Every time a woman demands what she’s worth, she strengthens the foundation for the next generation of women to do the same.
To ensure you enter your next salary negotiation strategically prepared and fully in control, follow these powerful negotiation tactics.
1. Know Your Value—And Be Ready to Prove It
Confidence starts with data. Before entering any salary discussion, quantify your impact:
List your key achievements—What have you contributed that has directly benefited your company?'
Show the numbers—Increased revenue? Cut costs? Brought in new clients? Numbers carry weight.
Demonstrate leadership—Have you led projects, mentored others, or taken on responsibilities beyond your role?
Pro Tip: Practice stating your contributions out loud. The more comfortable you are articulating your value, the more confidently you’ll deliver it in the meeting.
2. Research Industry Standards—Know the Market Rate
You should never enter a salary negotiation without knowing what others in your industry and role are earning. Use sites like:
Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary Insights, Payscale – For general salary benchmark
Industry associations and job listings – For more specific compensation insights
When presenting your case, frame your request with data-backed statements like: “Industry standards for my role in this city average $X, and given my contributions, I’d like to align my salary accordingly.”
This removes emotion from the conversation and positions your request as a logical business decision.
3. Use Powerful, Direct Language
Confidence is non-negotiable when negotiating your salary. Your words should assert your value, not ask for permission.
Don’t say: “I was wondering if it’s possible to discuss a raise?”
Do say: “Given my contributions and impact on [specific project], I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation to reflect my value and market standards.”
Other high-impact phrases:
“I’m excited to continue contributing at a high level, and I want my compensation to reflect that.”
“Based on my accomplishments and industry benchmarks, I’d like to review my salary.”
Pro Tip: Avoid phrases that undermine your position, like “I think” or “maybe.” Power lies in direct, confident communication.
4. Be Ready for Any Response—And Have a Backup Plan
Your company may agree, negotiate, or decline your request. No matter the outcome, you need a next move:
If they say yes: Confirm in writing. Ensure you have a clear timeline for when the new salary takes effect.
If they offer less than expected: Ask what it would take to reach your target salary—and get a timeline for reassessment.
If they say no: Keep your options open. Express your commitment to the company, but start exploring external opportunities.
Remember: You should never work harder for a raise that you already deserve. If the company won’t budge, start looking at competitive offers elsewhere. Sometimes, walking away is the strongest move you can make.
Final Thoughts: Advocating for Yourself = Advocating for Women
Negotiating for fair pay takes courage, strategy, and persistence—but every time you demand what you're worth, you shift the balance of power.
By standing firm in your value, you’re not just elevating your own career—you’re paving the way for more women to rise. Because pay equity doesn’t happen when we wait for it. It happens when we demand it.