Guide to Salary Negotiation for Black Professionals

Racial wage gaps persist in the U.S., with Black workers making 84 cents for every dollar earned by a typical white worker. Negotiating your salary can be necessary for securing compensation that reflects your true worth. However, it's often easier said than done, especially if you're unsure how to advocate for yourself.

This quick guide to salary negotiation for Black professionals provides tips on overcoming underpayment bias and discussing wages, whether you're starting a new job or asking for a raise.

Know Your Value

Negotiating your salary means much more than earning a higher income. It's about equity, empowerment, and closing the racial wage gap that has existed for decades. For example, Black women lost $42.7 billion in wages compared to white men in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

You should view salary negotiation as a correction, not a favor. Understanding your value as a Black professional helps you enter discussions from a place of strength.

Research Your Salary Range

Before sitting down at the negotiation table, collect data on salaries for your role from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Glassdoor. This lets you determine whether you are receiving a fair wage for your work. You can also ask your peers about typical pay and benefits in your field to understand what you should be earning.

Approach Your Employer

This may be the most difficult part, but with a little practice, you can advocate for your value with confidence. Write down everything you want to say to your employer, including how your skills, experience, and accomplishments are worthy of a pay increase.

Key phrases to use when you negotiate a salary may include:

• "Based on my contributions to this company, I truly believe that a salary amount of $X is fair."
• "I'd like to discuss a compensation package that accurately reflects the value I bring to the table."
• "I'm confident that my skills and expertise justify this level of compensation."

Negotiation Beyond a Paycheck

Salary negotiation shouldn't have to be an uncomfortable conversation. It's about addressing bias head-on and claiming your worth so you can receive a similar level of earnings to your peers.

If your employer won't up your salary, consider asking for alternative forms of compensation or benefits, such as a flexible work schedule, additional vacation days, or professional development opportunities. Ultimately, advocating for yourself isn't just about asking for more money. It's about making sure your employer recognizes your worth, which is especially important when being Black in the workplace.