When people hear the word “negotiation,” they often think of one thing: money. Salary. Raises. Bonuses.
But the truth? Negotiation isn’t just about dollars—it’s about value. And value comes in many forms.
Let me tell you a quick story.
I once listed a high-end bedroom set for sale—sleek sleigh bed, side tables, a bench, the whole setup. I’d originally spent close to $10,000 on it, but I was downsizing and needed it gone. A resale shop told me I’d be lucky to get $700 for the whole set.
Someone else suggested I list it on Craigslist for $1,895—and I did.
When a buyer came to look at it, I had already decided that if he offered anything close to $700, I’d take it. But instead… he asked if I’d take $1,500.
I paused. Took a breath. Smiled and said,
“You know what? Because you love it so much, yes, I’m willing to take $1,500.”
He left. My roommate and I screamed with joy the second the door closed.
Here’s the thing: that moment had nothing to do with salary or a job title—but it had everything to do with negotiation, confidence, and holding firm.
Most Women Only Negotiate When It Feels “Big Enough”
In every leadership class I teach, I talk to women who’ve never negotiated their salary—but they’ve negotiated all kinds of things in their lives.
They just don’t always recognize it as negotiation because it wasn’t about money.
And that’s the trap. When you think negotiation = cash, you miss a world of other opportunities to advocate for what helps you thrive.
7 Things You Can (and Should) Be Negotiating
If you’re not asking for money (yet), ask for something else that moves the needle in your life and career.
Here are seven places to start:
1. Title
Does your title actually reflect your level of responsibility? If not, you can negotiate for a better one—especially when it comes to visibility in your industry or credibility on your resume.
2. Professional Development
Ask for coaching, conferences, certifications, or courses. Growth has value—and the right investments in you benefit your employer too.
3. Schedule Flexibility
It could be remote days, earlier hours, or compressed weeks. Work-life alignment isn’t just a perk—it’s a performance tool.
4. Time Off
Whether it’s additional PTO, mental health days, or flexible holidays—this is a powerful way to reclaim energy and reduce burnout.
5. Visibility
Want a seat at the table? Ask to present in meetings, lead cross-functional projects, or be considered for higher-profile assignments.
6. Resources
Need better tools? More support? A budget to outsource? These things are negotiable—and advocating for them shows leadership.
7. Recognition
You can ask for public shout-outs, stronger review language, internal awards, or even just more timely feedback. Being seen matters.
💡 You’re not greedy for asking. You’re strategic.
Start Small, Start Real
Some of the best negotiating practice I’ve ever gotten came from asking for upgrades—at hotels, car rental counters, and even on flights.
It used to feel scary to ask. But I learned how to do it with kindness, authenticity, and zero entitlement—and was amazed at how many yeses I got. All because I asked like one human speaking to another.
If that kind of courage can get you a better seat on a plane, imagine what it could do for your role, your recognition, or your quality of life at work.
It’s Not About “Too Much”—It’s About What Helps You Thrive
Negotiating non-monetary terms builds more than just your benefits package—it builds your confidence.
It shifts your identity from “grateful employee” to valued contributor.
And every time a woman negotiates—whether it’s for a better title or a longer weekend—she creates space for the next woman to do the same.
You Deserve to Be Recognized for the Value You’re Already Delivering
If you’re doing great work but feel invisible, under-supported, or on the verge of burnout, I see you.
That’s exactly why I created The Confident Ask webinar and my new program, Recognition Reset, to help high-performing women finally get rewarded for the value they’re already bringing.
But before we go there, I’ll leave you with this:
What’s something you’ve negotiated in your career that wasn’t about money—but made a huge difference?
Or… what do you wish you’d asked for sooner?
Let’s talk about it.
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