Despite the fact that women still experience wage discrimination at work, most female professionals in Canada didn’t make an effort to bargain with their employers for higher pay. Only 3 out of 10 women, according to the survey, bargained for a raise following their employee’s initial offer, but those who did receive a 63% pay rise.
The Robert Half poll found that 33% of women found salary differences in their workplace, proving that these pay inequalities are not being ignored. In this case, salary offers for new hiring were higher than those for existing staff members in the same role.
A large salary was one of the most coveted perks from an employer even in the past. However, the demand for this benefit has increased due to concerns about inflation and rising living costs.
The results of the poll regarding pay discussions were in line with a current Indeed report on wage discussions that was released this year.
According to Indeed’s research, 68% of women say they only seldom or never try to negotiate their pay, and 45% of them say it makes them feel very or extremely uncomfortable.
According to Michelle Slater, director at Indeed, “it’s important to feel encouraged to ask for a compensation that is appropriate of their work and talents, especially women and visible minorities who tend to see wage gaps.”
The following guidance was provided by Slater to help workers in pay negotiations:
- Value determination Slater advises taking into account education, relevant experience, skills, licenses or certificates, leadership qualities, and current income.
- Do some market research. Slater recommended candidates look at the salaries of other professionals in equivalent or related positions.
- Construct an outline. Slater advises being specific with talking points and utilizing information about accomplishments, experience, and talents.
- Make conversational preparations. Slater advised practicing the talk and making an effort to foresee such inquiries.
- Keep your confidence. According to Slater, assurance in one’s skills and capabilities should be displayed with confidence.
- Be adaptable. Asking for just a little bit more than you anticipate in order to allow for negotiation is a typical strategy. Try negotiating for benefits like more vacation time or a commuting stipend if a raise is unlikely.
- Understand when to refuse. Slater advocated rejecting the offer and beginning the search for alternative employment if the company is not flexible with wage or benefits. Before making a choice, one should also think about the company’s commitment to work-life balance, a positive corporate culture, and professional advancement.
