Decoding Negotiation: Understanding the Meaning and Importance of Negotiating

There are so many definitions of negotiating. I borrowed a few definitions from my friend Merriam-Webster. Here are a few:

·         To deal with some matter or affair that requires the ability for its successful handling

·         To manage

·         To arrange for or bring about through conference, discussion, and compromise

·          To convert into cash or the equivalent value

My favorite definition from Merriam-Webster is to “convert into cash.”

I have witnessed many pay disparities that often affect students and faculty from diverse or marginalized backgrounds. I also recognized that there was little training and preparation available to help underrepresented individuals to receive the mentorship and support they needed to successfully negotiate their job offers and prepare for the job market. This observation was the inspiration behind Academe180.

Although my favorite definition of negotiating is “to convert into cash”, negotiating involves so many things beyond your base salary. Now the base salary is important and should remain a priority but I also want to highlight additional considerations. Some of you may not need more money, but you might need support, supplies/equipment, and time. You might want your teaching, research, or service to look completely different one semester. Others may be seeking summer salary, extra compensation, discretionary funds, a larger travel or research budget. Regardless of what you desire, Academe180 was started to help you have critical conversations to get your needs met. I believe that the resources and services available on this site will help you convert your conversation into whatever you need to thrive personally and professionally.

Over the years, I have come up with my own definition of what I believe negotiation involves. If I had to personally define the process of negotiating, I would say it is about the following:

·         Understanding the goals of the organization/university  

·         Understanding and acknowledging what I need, want, and value

·         Being willing to start a conversation about the gap between what an organization/university is offering and what I need and want

·         Asking the right questions to determine if the “best offer” is on the table

·         Being able to come to an agreement

My definition of negotiation seems doable…right? Well, I hope so! I believe that each of my personal definitions can be learned and practiced. Check out my LIVE COURSE if you want to learn more.