The American workforce has been undergoing significant changes since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Recently, the shift has been from the Great Resignation to the Great Renegotiation, with indications that workers hold more power. This landscape isn’t uniform for everyone, however, particularly for those beginning their careers, working in creative fields, or freelancing. These individuals might be familiar with the concept of working for ‘exposure’.
Exposure often implies: “We can’t pay you for your work, but this opportunity will offer exposure.” Juleyka Lantigua-Williams, a media expert and CEO of LWC Studios, rejects this notion. She argues, “Exposure isn’t accepted as currency by the bank.” You can’t pay bills with exposure.
The ‘brown discount,’ a term coined by actor America Ferrera, highlights a recurring issue where people of color are asked to share their extensive experiences without fair compensation. This concept ties closely to existing gender and race pay disparities across industries. Such practices often devalue employees, emphasizing gratitude over fair compensation.
Whether new to the field or seasoned, asserting your worth in a workplace focused on profit can be challenging. Yet, there are strategies to understand fair compensation and secure payment. Start by affirming that you will be paid for your work, and have your pricing prepared.
Strategies for Fair Payment
Lantigua-Williams, accustomed to requests for her time and efforts, advises approaching each with gratitude but clarity. She asserts the importance of not being a pushover while maintaining politeness. Some suggested responses include:
- “What do you usually pay for this?”
- “My usual rate for this is [insert fee].”
- “During a similar event at [insert event], I was paid [insert fee].”
Being familiar with your rates is crucial, regardless of your field. Lantigua-Williams recommends creating various pricing options for different services. Rates should reflect the skills and experiences required, whether hourly, daily, a la carte, or bundled. Having this information readily available enhances the hiring process’s transparency.
Evaluating Exchanges
While sometimes trading time or labor for non-monetary benefits is viable, thorough consideration is essential. Lantigua-Williams warns against undertaking numerous events with mere hopes of future materialization into concrete opportunities. Instead, assess how each exchange can strategically position you for future possibilities.
Consider if volunteering hours could lead to a beneficial membership, an event could connect you with influential individuals, or bartering could lead to valuable training. When job hunting or climbing the career ladder, maintain creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset.
Deciphering Offers from Opportunities
Evaluating every offer critically is vital in protecting your time and space. Lantigua-Williams stresses the importance of trusting your instincts and learning from past experiences. Assess factors like your workload, pay rate, potential collaborators, and current commitments before accepting.
Should you decline an offer, she suggests polite, open-ended responses for future consideration:
- “Thanks for letting me know; I’ll pass this time.”
- “If a budget is available next time, I’d be interested.”
- “I appreciate your enthusiasm, but uncompensated participation requires time I can’t afford.”
Building an Advisory Network
Continual workplace devaluation can be mentally exhausting. Lantigua-Williams emphasizes the support from networked friends and mentors as invaluable. This network, or ‘advisory board’, provides strength, triumph reflection, and guidance during obstacles.
Proactively create these connections, whether through professional communities, employee resource groups, or office mentorship programs. With such foundations, remain clear on your aspirations and efforts.
Fears of starting new opportunities or independence, stemming from workplace devaluation, are valid. Yet, Lantigua-Williams encourages additional attempts without waiting for specific degrees or recognitions. Make the decision to start and find conviction, paving your path forward.
Her strategy relied on self-belief: “Betting on myself was the biggest risk, and it’s paying off.”
The podcast segment was produced by Clare Marie Schneider with engineering by Daniel Shukhin. NPR welcomes life tips at 202-216-9823 or [email protected]. Subscribe to the newsletter for more insights.