How A Lack of Courage and Self-Worth Shows up in your salary

Early on in my career, I remember being extremely uncomfortable and nervous around negotiating salary. This was in part due to not having experience negotiating, but in all actuality, I realized it had much to do with my self-worth. Now, as a DEI strategist and one that leads training, I will be the first to say there are systemic issues that perpetuate pay disparities we see for people based upon their identities. However, I am getting to the crux of why you lack the courage to ask for what you know you deserve. My two cents is that it has a lot to do with how you value yourself and your worth.

I remember having a job offer and having a trusted person inside the organization tell me I should negotiate for more based on the position. Much to my chagrin, when they offered me a salary, I accepted the first offer and did not even counter the offer, ask questions, or negotiate. Even though I had full guarantee that I could ask for more, I just didn’t. I remember being disappointed in myself.

Fast forward to several jobs later and gaining clarity on who I am and what I bring to the table. Now, I will never accept the first offer, I will always negotiate for more and am not afraid to advocate for myself. So much so that I turned down a position within a previous organization because I refused to be overworked and underpaid.

What I’m telling you is this: you will accept whatever coins thrown your way if you are not clear on your personal value, assets, and what you bring to an organization. I share my mistake so that you can learn and strengthen your sense of self-worth now. Don’t go another opportunity not being clear on your value and be prepared to say no when they cannot contribute what you feel is fair. If you can’t advocate for yourself, who do you think will?