A recent study conducted by job listing website Seek found that women are less likely than their male counterparts to negotiate when it comes to employment agreements.

The survey saw only half of the respondents saying they felt confident to negotiate things like personal development support, flexible working arrangements, and salary. Only 23 per cent of women felt confident striking a deal on possible salary terms compared to 58 per cent of males. There was a slight spike in women who wanted to further their personal development, with 34 per cent willing to broach the subject, while 79 per cent of men were confident in doing so.

Commenting on the double standards often faced by women in the workplace, Seek resident psychologist Sabrina Read said past studies have revealed when women are viewed as firm negotiators around their salary, it can negatively impact people’s willingness to work with them down the track. The same is not true for men who cut a hard deal on their salaries.

“Many people carry an unconscious bias around assertiveness in women. Interestingly, the same findings can’t be said for women when they are negotiating on behalf of someone else’s pay packet. So, it seems women can go into bat for others, but not themselves,” she said.

Ms Read said it’s not always an issue of confidence, with many women feeling they have the skills and knowledge to talk shop around a host of issues, including money. She suggested women highlight to their new or existing boss the benefits of having a skilled negotiator in the role.

“Regardless of whether you are in the earlier stages of your career or a more seasoned professional, it can help to say something like ‘sounds like you’ve noticed I’m a strong negotiator, which I’m sure you will agree will be an asset to the role and the organisation.’ The main objective here is to let your employer know that you have both theirs (and your) interests in mind, and you have the skills and ability to back that up,” she said.

Ms Read said that at the end of the day companies will keep employees who deliver and thrive so they will be open to negotiations on many issues with the right candidates.

Seek has a list of career advice articles where you can go when looking for that edge in your next interview. Here are some of their top negotiating tips:  

1. Negotiations will often start during the interview process when you discuss salary expectations. This is your first opportunity to let your potential employer know what you think your worth is. Industry research ahead of the interview will be beneficial here.

2. On research, you are going to have to assume the role of an amateur detective if you want to secure your best possible package. It is vital to talk to anyone you can about the industry, the company, its management, and its employees. You want to know the company’s history as well as its prospects.

3. When making a counter offer, be sure to thank the potential employer and let them know how excited you are to be part of their team. It is also important to be aware that your requests may not be fulfilled, negotiation goes both ways. Show that you are willing to compromise as stubbornness may lead to the offer going to someone else.

4. Don’t feel like you have to disclose any previous salary packages. Employers are likely to have done their research as well and should have some idea of what your previous role may have paid. If you find yourself being offered way more than your last role, take it as good fortune but make sure you aren’t stepping up to a level beyond your ability.

5. Be sure to point out the benefits of flexible working arrangements or development support for both parties. Meeting the needs of all those involved is an indicator of a skilled negotiator.

The study also revealed some surprising statistics surrounding negotiations from the employer’s perspective. They found that 75 per cent of those who participated were willing to negotiate with employees and candidates on salary and promotion cycles. Transportation and company cars were up for negotiation with 77 per cent of employers, while 91 per cent said they were willing to work out deals on flexible, working-from-home arrangements.

Get local, national and world news, plus sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Canberra Daily Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.