Our Experts | Robin Doerschuk
When you need to ask for something at work, it can be uncomfortable and even downright scary – especially as a woman.
Never wanting to be seen as too needy or too demanding, women walk a fine line in the workplace. This makes asking for anything, be it a raise, more PTO or flexible hours, a challenge at all levels.
Prepare to make your ask with the 5 following steps:
- Know your market value. Do your research on what people with your experience, responsibilities and locality are making. Also do research on your company’s financial state, so you will be prepared with a rebuttal about “financial barriers.”
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Prepare your previous accomplishments, and what you plan to accomplish next. Have a list of everything you’ve achieved and how it has helped the bottom line. Then explain what you are going to achieve next and why it matters.
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Practice negotiating. Negotiating (or trying to reach an agreement) can be tough when you are used to going with the flow. Practice with a trusted mentor or friend until you feel comfortable.
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Relate your cause to the greater good and business goals. Relate your cause to the greater good. Your boss won’t get defensive if you are asking for something that will benefit everyone and the bottom line.
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Ask for more. Start with an ask greater than what you would actually settle for. Negotiating will typically go back and forth so you don’t want to start with your lowest ask.
To learn more about making your ask and getting a yes, see How to Ask for What You Want in the Workplace.
