Gentle Power 32. When you think you’re strengthening your position, but you’re giving it away
Nov 7, 2025
Negotiation can be tricky, and often we give away our power without realizing it. Sharing salary history? That's a quick way to anchor yourself low. Companies might coax you into revealing info they shouldn't ask for. Market data is not as reliable as it seems; knowing the true budget is crucial. Even small financial missteps can compound over time, impacting future earnings. And be cautious with personal disclosures—like talking about other offers or personal plans—as these can undermine your leverage.
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Executive Shared W‑2s And Lost Leverage
- A senior exec proactively shared her W-2s and current salary during interviews.
- Alex Choi explains that revealing pay history immediately anchors offers and erases leverage.
Why Salary‑History Laws Matter
- Salary history laws exist because pay history gives employers undue negotiation power.
- Companies shouldn't base offers on your past pay, but many candidates unknowingly enable that.
Don't State Your Salary Expectation Early
- Avoid giving any specific preferred salary or total-comp number early in talks.
- Let the employer reveal their range so you don't anchor below the top of their budget.