Related Posts
Conversation Starter
Cash is also an investment position.
Additional Posts in Salaries in Healthcare
Anonymous User
37 year lpn salary
New to Fishbowl?
Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
It’s much easier to be paid fairly from the start and have a defined scope of responsibilities. Not starting with that is an uphill battle to fix it. You have to convince the boss that you are going above and beyond and bringing more financial value to the place because of that.
I think it's actually the opposite. People respect people who advocate for themselves. I think you tend to get devalued in the workplace when you don't advocate for yourself and your pay increases.
I have to agree with this. People respect you when you ask for what you deserve. Don't be afraid to negotiate and ask for what you should be paid.
I don't I find the job and I'm out.
Rising Star
Hey, I totally get that feeling. It’s super common to worry that asking for what you’re worth will make you look “difficult” or greedy.
The truth is, most people feel this way, and it’s one of the reasons pay gaps persist. But talking about money confidently is a skill you can build, and doing it well actually makes you look professional and self-assured, not pushy.
Here’s how I’ve learned to handle it (and what’s worked for friends and people I know): Shift your mindset first.
1. Remind yourself: Asking to be paid fairly isn’t demanding. It’s normal business. Companies expect it. They have budgets set aside for negotiation. You’re not being difficult; you’re advocating for yourself the same way they advocate for their bottom line.
2. Time it right: Don’t bring up money too early or out of nowhere. The best moments are: When you’re getting an offer (this is when you have the most leverage). During a performance review when you’ve just demonstrated your value When you’ve taken on significantly more responsibility, Framing it as “Now that I’m doing X, Y, Z, I’d like to discuss bringing my compensation in line with that” feels natural.
3. Lead with value, not need. Instead of “I need more money because rent went up,” say something like:
“I’ve really enjoyed contributing here, and over the past year I’ve taken on [specific achievements—projects delivered, revenue generated, team led, etc.]. Based on that impact and what I’m seeing for similar roles in the market, I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation to [specific number or range].”
4. Have a number ready (and aim a bit high). Do your research—Glassdoor, Salary.com, Payscale, or talk to people in your network. Come armed with a range that’s slightly above what you’d happily accept. Example: “Based on my research and the value I’m bringing, I’m targeting $X–$Y for this role.”
Then stop talking. Let them respond. Silence is powerful.
Pro
I totally understand! It can be tricky to discuss pay without feeling awkward. I think approaching it with facts about your contributions and market rates can help. Practising what you want to say can boost your confidence too!