As a senior women with an ambition to continue to grow her leadership skills, Professor Wendy Lawson took the time during a performance discussion with her boss to ask what she needed to do in order to be better qualified, experienced and positioned for more senior roles. Her boss told her that she needed to improve her negotiating skills.
In most organisations, effective negotiation skills can be the key to unlocking financial gains and career advancements. By negotiating your pay and conditions you demonstrate that you are a competent negotiator and unafraid of navigating sensitive conversations. You show that you have the skills that can be used to grow opportunities for your organisation.
Wendy went on to secure a more senior role at a larger organisation and at a much higher pay. She is now the person who leads complex negotiations. In her new role she is able to spend much more time negotiating. “I have come to really love negotiating” she says.
Unfortunately, many women may not fully realize the incredible opportunities that lie within their grasp simply by demonstrating their ability to negotiate effectively. Here are some of the benefits you will gain by showcasing your negotiating skills to your boss.
Increased Compensation
One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of effective negotiation is the potential for increased compensation. By showcasing her negotiation skills to her boss, Wendy can confidently articulate her value to the organisation, demonstrating how her contributions have positively impacted its success. Armed with solid evidence of her accomplishments and a well-prepared negotiation strategy, Wendy can leverage this knowledge to secure a higher salary or additional benefits, ultimately enhancing her financial well-being.
Career Advancement
Negotiation skills are highly regarded in the professional world, and possessing them can significantly contribute to career advancement. When Wendy effectively demonstrates her ability to negotiate, she showcases her confidence, assertiveness, and ability to communicate persuasively. These qualities are highly sought-after by employers, and by effectively negotiating, Wendy positions herself as a valuable asset to her organisation. This, in turn, can open doors to promotions, new responsibilities, and increased leadership opportunities, propelling her career to new heights.
Enhanced Professional Reputation
The act of negotiating skillfully communicates Wendy’s professionalism, determination, and proactive nature. When she presents a well-prepared negotiation case to her boss, she demonstrates her commitment to self-advocacy and her dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes. Such behaviour not only impresses her immediate superiors but also creates a positive impression. Her colleagues will recognise her as someone who knows her worth and is willing to take calculated steps to secure what she deserves, ultimately enhancing her professional reputation.
Building Confidence
Effective negotiation requires careful preparation, research, and the ability to navigate conversations assertively and diplomatically. As Wendy hones her negotiation skills, she will gradually build confidence in her abilities. This confidence will extend beyond the negotiating table, positively impacting her overall professional interactions and decision-making processes. With enhanced confidence, she will be better equipped to take on new challenges, seek out opportunities for growth, and tackle complex projects with determination and resilience.
Unlocking earning potential and securing better compensation packages lies in harnessing the power of effective negotiation. By investing in developing this skill, Wendy can demonstrate her readiness for more senior positions, advancing her career, and building a strong professional reputation. This puts Wendy in a strong position to shape her financial future and unlock a world of possibilities.