Negotiate the office ‘housework’

Studies show that women are more likely than men to agree to help out around the office when asked. While these often-thankless tasks are necessary to keep the business running, saying “yes” too often creates an expectation and you’re more likely to be under appreciated. It’s therefore important to negotiate better terms for your own benefit when considering taking on more work. Here are a few strategies to get ahead.

Turn a request into a negotiation When your manager comes to you with a project he or she needs help on, or if your company asks you to support an additional executive, be sure to make reasonable demands in return. Try to get a promotion, a pay rise, or better benefits out of the deal.

Calculate the cost of your contribution Remember that helping another department takes time away from your regular role and could mean you’ll have to sacrifice a good work-life balance to get everything done. Figure out how many extra hours you may have to put in and present it to your boss in monetary terms, including how it will affect your hourly pay. You’ll be able to negotiate more resources to ease the burden.

Demonstrate your value If you help another department or executive and they continue to come to you seeking your expertise, it’s time to talk to your boss about the significance of your work. Show him or her how much your help is valued and you may find yourself with a new job title and a pay rise.

Ask for something in return The requests PAs receive aren’t always about the business. Sometimes they’re more personal, such as making hot drinks and planning the office Christmas party. It’s fine to do these tasks if you have the time, but add in a proviso – “I’ll get you a cup of tea if you get me one next time” – and be sure to remind the person so it becomes habit.

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