Negotiate for More Money and Power

Even as today's professional women have succeeded in becoming highly respected members of the workforce and have achieved some parity, fairness in compensation has remained a sticking point, according to PINK magazine. Many of my clients have concerns and apprehensions about moving themselves to the next level in their organizations and are not demanding the money and recognition they deserve. One of the basic questions is, "How do I manage my boss and influence the politics to get a promotion or raise?

5 Things to Consider

1. Have you initiated a conversation in the last year with your boss to gain agreement on what you want from him/her in support of your growth?


A great way to get a raise or promotion is to ask what is needed to get you to the next level. Also solicit your boss's support and involvement in getting you there. Bosses don't always assume the role of mentor even though you might expect them to.

2. Do you know what your boss considers as important in your job performance?


It is important to have agreement with your manager about what success looks like for you in your job. It is often not the things that are in your job description but what your boss feels is important at the moment. Be sure to ask and don't make assumptions so you can focus on what is going to move you towards your goal.

3. Do you know what success is for your boss and what he/she is being held accountable for by their boss?


When you know what your boss is being held accountable for, it creates an opportunity for you to focus your efforts and link them to the things that will contribute to his/her success. Demonstrate your ability to be tactical as well as strategic in your thinking.

4. What relationships do you have with people on the same level as your boss?


These relationships can give you access to people who share similar views and goals with your boss and they are likely in a position to give you a different perspective about opportunities and political dynamics.

5. What can you do to gain more visibility for yourself at higher levels in the organization?


Lift your head up from your keyboard and listen for requests for involvement in office projects, like a blood drive, charity campaigns, community events and/or AIDS Walks. Find out what socially responsible activities your senior executives are involved with and get involved and be seen. You could always try golf.

You might consider politics a dirty word, but remember anytime you have two or more people in an organization you are going to have politics. If you can't change the game, then learn how to play it to the best of your ability.