You’re an LGBTQ+ member in Artificial Intelligence. How can you negotiate a salary or raise?

As an LGBTQ+ member in AI, negotiate salary or raise by researching industry standards, highlighting achievements, and effectively communicating your value to the organization. Emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion while seeking support from mentors or LGBTQ+ networks for guidance in navigating negotiations and promoting equitable treatment.

I've noticed in my coaching many (LGBTQ+ and others) downplay their skills due to insecurity. But true value shines when you know KNOW your worth (who you are?), OWN it and COMMUNICATE it with authority. Before negotiating, research market rates for your role and location. Compare your skills and achievements to others in AI. Identify your unique value proposition for problem-solving, value creation, and innovation. Speak to an Ally, preparation is always a key. Remember, you are your best advocate.

Truthfully it doesn't matter what your gender or sexual preferences are. As a potential employer I care about your skills and what proof you have to demonstrate to me in the form of a portfolio of work. Like any job, the best thing to do to negotiate a raise is to set clear deliverables with your manager and ask the question. What do I need to do/show to move on to X salary/position. If they can give you a clear answer, then the workplace can offer that progression. If they don't offer a clear answer then it's probably time to move to another company that does operate ethically.

In the context of negotiating within the LGBTQ community, additional considerations may come into play. It's important to be aware of potential biases or discrimination that could impact the negotiation process. Here are some specific points to elaborate on: Understanding Workplace Policies: Research and familiarize yourself with the workplace policies related to diversity, inclusion, and non-discrimination. This knowledge can provide a basis for discussing fair treatment and equality during negotiations. Know Your Rights: Be informed about legal protections in your region that safeguard individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. This awareness can empower you to assert your rights confidently.

Negotiating a salary or raise as an LGBTQ+ member in AI involves preparation and strategy, similar to any professional context. Research industry salary standards and prepare evidence of your contributions, achievements, and the value you bring to your role. Highlight any unique skills or perspectives you contribute, especially if they align with diversity and inclusion goals. Approach the negotiation with confidence, clearly communicating your expectations and how your work supports the organization's objectives. Ensure you understand your rights and seek support from allies or networks within your industry for guidance and encouragement.

Build a strong argument for your desired salary. Document your accomplishments, highlighting quantifiable results (e.g., projects delivered, models improved, revenue generated). Frame your contributions in terms of value provided to the company, demonstrating how you directly impact business objectives.

In the context of AI, your case for a salary or raise should be tailored to the specific contributions and advancements you've made in this rapidly evolving field. Here's a more detailed perspective: Quantifiable Impact: Use concrete data and metrics to illustrate the impact of your AI-related projects. Highlight key performance indicators, improvements in model accuracy, or efficiency gains achieved through your work. Skill Development and Innovation: Showcase how you've proactively improved your AI skills, stayed updated with the latest advancements, and implemented innovative solutions within your projects. This emphasizes your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Pick a strategic moment to initiate the conversation. Ideal times are after a significant successful project, when you've taken on extra responsibilities, or around annual performance reviews. Avoid negotiation when the company is undergoing budget cuts or major restructuring.

In the realm of AI, negotiating a salary or raise requires a nuanced approach: Highlight AI Contributions: Emphasize specific AI projects or implementations where you've made a significant impact. Showcase how your work has advanced the company's technological capabilities, improved processes, or contributed to innovation. Quantify Achievements: Use measurable metrics to quantify the success of your AI initiatives. Whether it's improved accuracy rates, reduced processing times, or increased efficiency, having concrete numbers strengthens your negotiation position.

How you frame the request for a raise is incredibly important. If you approach the conversation by saying I want a raise of $xyz, you leave leadership with an inflexible yes or no scenario. An alternative approach is to frame the raise as a goal and collaborate on how to get there. I enjoy working here and want to continue to do so. I am currently making "X", my goal is to be making "Y", how can I get there? From here you can outline all the value you bring to the organization. Now you have taken a yes/no scenario and have turned it into a conversation with multiple options & paths to get you to your goal.

If the salary or raise isn't what you hoped for, think beyond the numbers. Explore alternative rewards like bonuses, stock options, benefits, or flexible work hours. Seek out growth opportunities like feedback, mentorship, or professional development in AI. Negotiate creatively, focusing on the value that complements your compensation and fuels your career progression.

AI jobs are in demand right now. Being a minority should not matter for you or for employer decision process. However if you are a minority and you are living in a place where you encounter discrimination, being in the field of AI it's an opportunity to show your value as an employee because there are better odds to give you a chance since the demand is higher. But again i think equal opportunities should be the norm for any job

DON'T go into the conversation with demands. Go in prepared to show them how valuable you are to the organization and how losing you would be a detriment. - Don't make it personal; it's purely business. - Exude confidence; you know you deserve this! - Show them precisely how you have added value to the organization over your years working there. - Do your research on what the competition is offering to bring new talent onboard. - If you need to be a tough negotiator, tell them that you earned your knowledge, skills, and abilities through dedication to your craft; they were not gifted to you...and they are 100% portable.