How to get paid more for what you do.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the last ten years of building a successful portfolio career, it’s that you can, and should, get paid more for what you do. Over the years, I’ve helped friends and colleagues, (especially women) to navigate those awkward money conversations and start getting paid more for their work. Let’s be real, most people want to get paid more. But too often, we feel stuck, undervalued, or simply too polite to ask for it. Truth is, being courteous may be costing you. 

I’ve had this conversation with women in my network more times than I can count. Whether they’re in a corporate 9-5 or multi-hyphen career, the story is the same. They work hard, put in the hours, do more than is expected, but when it comes time to talk about money, there’s often an obvious disconnect between the value they’re creating and the payment they’re receiving. It’s frustrating, it’s disheartening, and we all know this disproportionately affects women. So, how can you change it? How do you get paid more for what you do?

Well, it starts with a mindset shift and the willingness to do something most people avoid, have that difficult conversation.

Do the Maths

How many times have you heard the phrase, “Know your worth.” But what does that really mean? It’s not just about feeling deserving of more, it’s about being armed with the facts. The first step to getting paid more is knowing the numbers. How much impact are you making? What problem are you solving? What unique contribution are you bringing to the table? Start by doing your research - find out what others in your industry, with your level of expertise, are being paid.

Start having conversations about money, fees, and salaries with other women. There’s too much secrecy around pay. We need to stop gatekeeping and start being real about what’s possible. Whether it’s negotiating a salary, a speaking gig, or a brand partnership, having the data gives a clearer picture of what you should be earning and/or charging. Numbers don’t lie, once you know what’s fair, it’s a lot easier to ask for it. 

(Tip - Before going into the conversation, send an email with a clear and specific ask. You might find it easier to be assertive via email than negotiating face to face.)

Ask for More

One of the biggest reasons people don’t get paid what they’re worth? They don’t ask. We’ve been taught to believe that if we work hard, show up, and keep our head down, we’ll eventually be rewarded. But sadly, that’s not how it works. You need to advocate for yourself. You need to ask for more.

Here in the UK, we’re far too polite when it comes to business. We’re so afraid of seeming arrogant that we end up selling ourselves short. We’re always declaring that we’re “grateful for the opportunity” to work. But here’s the truth: it’s still work. And just because you enjoy it doesn’t mean you should be paid less for it.

I know lots of practitioners working in the wellness industry, from yoga teachers and coaches to personal trainers and massage therapists, who find it difficult to talk about money and to increase their rates because they genuinely want to help as many people as they can. It’s a nice sentiment, but in reality it's unsustainable. If you’re undercharging, you're not only making your own life harder, you’re setting a precedent that makes it harder for everyone in your industry to earn what they deserve. 

Build a Network (and a Reputation)

This takes a lot of time and effort, but it’s worth it. There’s no way I could have achieved the things I have without my network. And no, I’m not talking about needing thousands of followers on social media. I’m talking about real relationships with people who can support you, offer advice and honest feedback.

Your network is only as valuable as your reputation within it. And here’s the thing-your reputation isn’t what you say it is, it’s what other people say when you’re not in the room. So, where do you start? Well, if you want to build a network that helps you, start off by helping them. Share your knowledge, make introductions, provide value without expecting something in return. The more people who see the value you add, the more likely they are to advocate for you when you’re not in the room.
Eventually this can lead to more opportunities, better offers, and yes, higher pay.

Get Your Expenses Covered

Okay this one is mega practical and it might seem obvious, but here’s a reminder. In the last few years, due to inflation and higher fuel costs, the cost of living has increased dramatically. Whether it's train tickets, Uber rides or hotel stays, these costs add up fast, so find out if you can get these expenses covered. It might seem like a small thing but these additional costs can make a big difference, especially when they’re incurred regularly. Don't let these hidden costs reduce what you’ve worked hard to earn. 

Stop Working for Free

If you’re serious about getting paid what you’re worth, sometimes you’ll have to walk away from opportunities that don’t value you. It’s not always easy to do this, but it’s essential. True story - Last year, I was asked to chair a panel at a conference in London. As a podcast host and speaker, I’ve done this many times before so l knew how much time and preparation is required. When it came to discussing fees the organisers said ‘There was no fee for speakers on this occasion’ So, I reached out to a friend who was also presenting at the same conference and asked him, “Are you getting paid for this?” He said, “Yes.” *eye roll. I replied and politely declined the offer, letting them know that I would not be ‘working for free on this occasion’. But to my surprise, a few days later, they came back with an offer to pay my speaker fee.

The lesson? Not everyone is playing by the same rules. Sometimes, you have to be willing to walk away and call out inequity when you see it. If I’d accepted their first offer, I’d have been giving away my time and expertise for nothing.

In the end, getting paid more isn’t just about asking for it. It’s about knowing your value, doing your research and being willing to walk away from anything that doesn’t value you and your contribution. 

Stop settling for less in order to keep the peace and be accommodating, it’s holding you back. If you never ask for more, you’ll never get it.