Last updated on Jun 19, 2024

Here's how you can evaluate your value and secure a just salary in the social impact field.

Navigating the social impact field can be incredibly rewarding, yet when it comes to compensation, it might feel daunting to determine your worth and advocate for a just salary. Unlike profit-driven industries, the social impact sector often requires a delicate balance between the mission-driven nature of the work and the practicalities of living expenses. However, you have the power to evaluate your value and secure a salary that reflects your contribution. This article offers guidance on how to approach this challenge with confidence and effectiveness.

1 Know Worth

Understanding your value in the social impact field starts with recognizing the unique skills and experiences you bring to the table. Consider the impact of your work, your educational background, and any specialized knowledge you possess. Reflect on the successes you've achieved and how they've furthered your organization's goals. This self-awareness is crucial when entering salary negotiations, as it equips you with concrete examples of your contributions to the mission.

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Kate Yee

Executive Director Women's Advancement and Equity @ The Estée Lauder Companies Inc. | Strategic Partnerships | Public Relations | Corporate Communications | Board Member
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Talk to your champions about their salaries, total compensation packages, bonuses, equity and benefits. Get their assessment of what someone with your skills would be worth/earning in their company/industry. Ask about the ways they negotiated to their current compensation (especially your male allies) and learn from their experiences.

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Sonali Mundle

Consultant- Partnerships | Brand Building & Communication
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It's very hard to put figures to your skills but one of the best ways to do it to estimate how long a task will take. The longer, the higher you can ask for. Even better if you can prove that you can do it much faster than average. Secondly, show the skills taken to do it and again, how you can do it better than others.

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2 Market Rates

To negotiate effectively, you need to know the going rate for your position within the social impact sector. Research similar roles in organizations of comparable size and mission to get an idea of the salary range. This information serves as a benchmark and strengthens your position when discussing compensation. Remember that non-profit does not mean non-competitive, and you should be paid fairly for your expertise.

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3 Articulate Value

When it's time to discuss salary, articulate your value clearly and confidently. Share specific examples of your achievements and how they've advanced your organization's objectives. Highlight any unique skills or experiences that set you apart. Communicating your value isn't just about stating what you've done; it's about showing how your work translates into tangible benefits for the organization.

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Arundhati Prasad

MDes @ Harvard GSD | Design for Social Impact | arundhatiprasad.com
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Use existing project examples from your organisation to make your case: Show your employer how your contribution can elevate the delivery and quality of a project - mention 1. what you liked, 2. thought could be better and 3. what inspired you to develop a certain skill. You must both KNOW and SHOW your worth.

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4 Negotiation Prep

Preparation is key to any successful negotiation. Before entering discussions, define your salary goals based on your research and personal financial needs. Practice your pitch, anticipate potential counterarguments, and prepare responses. Being well-prepared demonstrates professionalism and shows that you take the negotiation seriously, which can influence the outcome in your favor.

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5 Leverage Network

Your professional network can be an invaluable resource when seeking a just salary. Reach out to mentors or colleagues for advice on negotiation tactics specific to the social impact field. They may offer insights into the organization's financial health or share their own experiences, which can inform your approach and expectations. Networking is not only about gathering information; it's also about building relationships that can support your career growth.

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6 Ongoing Dialogue

Securing a just salary is not a one-time event but an ongoing conversation. Keep the dialogue open with your employer about your career path, future responsibilities, and compensation expectations. Regularly revisit your contributions and discuss how they align with your salary. This ensures that your compensation continues to reflect your evolving role and the value you add to the organization.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can evaluate your value and secure a just salary in the social impact field.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Worth

2 Market Rates

3 Articulate Value

4 Negotiation Prep

5 Leverage Network

6 Ongoing Dialogue

7 Here’s what else to consider

Social Impact

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Here's how you can evaluate your value and secure a just salary in the social impact field.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Worth

2 Market Rates

3 Articulate Value

4 Negotiation Prep

5 Leverage Network

6 Ongoing Dialogue

7 Here’s what else to consider

Social Impact

Rate this article

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