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In the last 24 hours, two women in their early 20s shocked me a bit at first. Upon reflection, I realised they were actually doing what we encourage women to do all the time. Effortlessly. Here's their story.
The first person pitched me a story. I accepted her pitch and told her what we can pay. Her response was to ask for 30% higher. This is the one thing I never did as a freelance journalist. I still don't! (In July, I agreed to 80 hour work week for 90 rupees an hour)
Women do not negotiate as much as (as well as) men do. The authors of 'Women Don’t Ask: Negotiation and the Gender Divide' say women lagged behind their male colleagues in salaries, bonuses, promotions, and perks simply because they hadn’t “asked for it.” https://www.forbes.com/sites/dailymuse/2012/02/26/why-women-dont-negotiate-and-what-we-can-do-about-it/#6dbcdf74de55
The reasons for women to not negotiate better pay are varied. They range from women pay a higher social cost for negotiation to lower confidence levels. https://hbrascend.org/topics/why-women-dont-negotiate-their-job-offers/
So, when the young journalist felt confident enough to ask for higher compensation for her work, I was thrilled. She felt her labour valued more. And found the confidence to voice it.
(I am working towards becoming a better negotiator. Quite unsuccessfully)
(I am working towards becoming a better negotiator. Quite unsuccessfully)
The other young woman who reached out to interview me. When I reach out to people requesting an interview, I do not give them time slots that suit me. Esp if it is a cold call.
But, she did. And it helped me realise that it is actually quite efficient.
But, she did. And it helped me realise that it is actually quite efficient.
As a young journalist (I started when I was 16), I used to feel indebted to my interviewee if they agreed to being interviewed. So, I have accommodated their time no matter how inconvenient those were for me.
I have conducted interviews in the middle of a housewarming ceremony. In a hospital. At 6 AM, after not having slept for 24 hours.
It was as simple as requesting a different time. And most people are reasonable and accommodating.
It was as simple as requesting a different time. And most people are reasonable and accommodating.
Young women are more secure and assured.
Come gather 'round, people
Wherever you roam
And admit that the waters
Around you have grown
And accept it that soon
You'll be drenched to the bone
The Times They Are A Changing :)
Come gather 'round, people
Wherever you roam
And admit that the waters
Around you have grown
And accept it that soon
You'll be drenched to the bone
The Times They Are A Changing :)
