It is unfortunate that women are still paid comparatively less than their male counterparts. There are a myriad of reasons for this which generally are societal based. However rather than focus on why we are paid less, I want to focus on how we can get paid more and equal up the pay scale.

Women generally are great negotiators in the relationship context of their lives such as with their children, partners, family and friends. However, when it comes to the workplace a different set of negotiation skills are required which we are then not as comfortable utilizing.

Studies have been undertaken across the globe which all show that women don’t like to negotiate their salary as the facts below from www.womendontask.com/stats.html demonstrate.

In surveys, 2.5 times more women than men said they feel “a great deal of apprehension” about negotiating. Men initiate negotiations about four times as often as women. When asked to pick metaphors for the process of negotiating, men picked “winning a ballgame” and a “wrestling match,” while women picked “going to the dentist.”

Many women are so grateful to be offered a job that they accept what they are offered and don’t negotiate their salaries. Women often don’t know the market value of their work: Women report salary expectations between 3 and 32 percent lower than those of men for the same jobs.

The most interesting statistic and the one that I think will get most of us women more inspired to negotiate our salary is below.

Another study calculated that women who consistently negotiate their salary increases earn at least $1 million more during their careers than women who don’t. So rather than wishing to win the million dollars in lotto you have more chance and control of hitting the jackpot by believing and backing yourself. Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary, think big and ensure you are getting paid what you are worth.

A couple of years ago I presented a Salary Negotiation Seminar to a group of women and developed a resource guide which was found to be very beneficial. To take action and start negotiating your next salary increase, click on the link for a copy of the Salary Negotiation Guide and access to great career resources http://www.sixfigures.com.au/job_seekers/resources

Remember confidence is key, followed by some research and preparation to ensure you initiate and have success in your salary negotiations.

Written by Kelly Magowan
Director
Six Figures
www.sixfigures.com.au