In my first job at a small startup, I successfully secured a grant of 0.93 million EUR for the company. I was on top of the world! But right after, I headed into my very first salary negotiation—and something happened that many women will recognize.

I was incredibly nervous. Even though my colleagues backed me up and told me I truly deserved a raise, I didn’t know how to put a real price on my own value.

The Fastest (and Bitterest) Victory of My Life 📉

I walked in and asked for a specific number. My boss said “Yes” immediately. The negotiation was over in less than two minutes.

Of course, I was happy about the raise, but the feeling of victory never came. Why? Because I realized I had set my “Max bid” way too low. I hadn’t negotiated; I had simply asked for the minimum I felt comfortable with. By playing it “safe,” I left money on the table.

The Lesson: Aim High and Build “Steel”

Since then, I’ve sat on the other side of the desk as a Director, managing budgets of over $7M. I’ve learned how the game is played from the top management perspective, and I’ve built that exact knowledge into LifeEquality.

Here are my 3 tips for your next negotiation:

1. Set a High Anchor: If they say yes immediately, you asked for too little. Use our “Aggressive” strategy to find a number that gives you room to move and still land on your dream salary.

2. Facts Over Feelings: It’s okay to be nervous (I was!), but don’t let that nervousness dictate your number. Use ROI and data—what we call “Steel”—as your shield.

3. Preparation is Everything: Don’t just bring a number; bring a plan for what to do if they say no.

Today, my mission is to ensure that no woman leaves a negotiation feeling like she sold herself short. We shouldn’t just get “more” pay—we should get what we are actually worth.

Have you ever had a boss say “yes” a little too quickly?

Learn how to avoid this situation by meeting Sally today: https://lifeequality.dk/shop/