Women get penalized for negotiating salary because it doesn't align with our gender stereotypes about what women should do. "What's the worst that happens if you ask for a high number? Yeah," she says. 'You got to remember you're not going to make it up'
One of the primary reasons we work is to earn money, but many of us feel uncomfortable telling others how much we make. This fear may be working against women, because research has shown that salary transparency can help narrow the gender pay gap.
With the help of experts, we explore the complexities of talking about our salaries. First, an economist walks through the pros and cons of disclosing your pay. Then, the host of a personal finance podcast explains why she encourages people to speak openly about salaries. Finally, an HR executive gives advice on how to deal with the gut punch of learning that a peer makes more than you do.
Our HBR reading list:
Sign up to get the Women at Work monthly newsletter.
Email us: womenatwork@hbr.org
Our theme music is Matt Hill’s “City In Motion,” provided by Audio Network.