Here Are 5 Lies You’ve Been Told About Salary Negotiation
If you’re a Latina in tech, you’ve probably been fed a lot of bullshit about what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to asking for more money.
Things like: "Don’t rock the boat." "Be grateful you have a job." "If you work hard enough, people will notice."
Let me say it straight: those are lies designed to keep you underpaid and overworked.
Let’s break them down, and I’ll give you the real truth about what it takes to negotiate like you deserve.
Lie #1: Be Grateful for What You Have
I hear this one all the time. Sometimes from recruiters. Sometimes from our own families. It’s that voice that says, “People like us don’t get these opportunities. Don’t mess it up by asking for more.”
Here’s the truth: Gratitude and negotiation are not enemies. You can be thankful for an opportunity and still expect to be compensated fairly for what you bring to the table.
If a company is hiring you, it’s because they need you. You are adding value. And value should be paid for.
What to say instead of just nodding along?
"Thank you, I’m excited about this role. And I want to make sure my compensation reflects the expertise and impact I’ll bring."
Lie #2: If You Work Hard Enough, They’ll Notice
This one is dangerous because it sounds good. It sounds logical. Like if you just keep your head down and work twice as hard, someone will come along and reward you.
But let me ask you: how many mediocre white guys have you seen get promoted while you’re still grinding?
The truth is, hard work alone doesn’t get you paid. Visibility, advocacy, and negotiation do. You have to make sure people know what you’re contributing and that you expect to be paid accordingly.
Want to shift that energy? Start saying:
"I’ve been leading [X project] and delivering [Y results]. I want to discuss how my compensation reflects that impact."
Lie #3: Negotiation Is Rude and Could Cost You the Offer
This one plays on fear, and for good reason. Many of us have been in situations where asking for more felt dangerous, especially if we’re first-gen or supporting family.
But here’s the real deal: companies expect you to negotiate. In fact, recruiters are trained to leave room for it. You’re not rude, you’re professional.
And if a company would rescind an offer just because you negotiated? That’s a red flag about how they’ll treat you once you’re inside.
What to say when you’re ready to negotiate?
"I’m really excited about this opportunity. I’d love to discuss the full compensation package to ensure it aligns with the value I’ll be bringing to the team."
Lie #4: You’re Lucky to Be at the Table
This is one of the most toxic lies, and it’s often weaponized against women of color. It’s the idea that because the industry lacks Latinas, we should just be happy to be there, no questions asked.
Let me be clear: you’re not lucky, you’re qualified. You’ve worked to be where you are, and if anything, they’re lucky to have someone who brings the skills, perspective, and resilience you do.
So when that "lucky to be here" voice creeps in, remind yourself:
"I’ve earned this seat, and now I’m making sure I’m compensated for what I bring to this role."
Lie #5: Prove Yourself First, Then You’ll Get More
The infamous "prove yourself" trap. Companies love to dangle this one, promising raises and promotions after you’ve gone above and beyond, but without putting anything in writing.
The truth? If they can’t pay you what you deserve now, there’s no guarantee they’ll do it later. And if they value you, they’ll invest in you from day one.
Instead of falling for this line, you can say:
"I’m confident in my ability to deliver results. To give my best, I’d like to ensure we’re aligned on compensation now so I can fully focus on excelling in this role."
Here’s what I want you to remember: you were never meant to play small.
Negotiation is about claiming your worth, breaking cycles, and setting new standards for every Latina coming up behind you.
So the next time someone tells you to "be grateful," smile, and then go get that bag.
And if you want support to navigate your next negotiation, because you shouldn’t have to do this alone, reach out. I’m here to help you flip these lies into the truth you deserve.
FAQs: Salary Negotiation for Latinas in Tech
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Yes. Companies expect it. Negotiating professionally with data shows confidence, not entitlement.
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Guilt is part of the conditioning. You’re not taking from anyone, you’re asking for alignment with the value you bring.
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Say: "I understand. Can we revisit this in 90 days? In the meantime, are other forms of compensation on the table?"
You’re Not Playing Small Anymore
You’ve worked too hard to sit quiet.
Negotiation isn’t rude. It’s survival. It’s strategy. It’s how we shift what’s possible for ourselves and every Latina who comes after us.
So next time someone tells you to be grateful, nod, smile… and go ask for more.