Session: Show Me the Money: Salary Negotiation Without Apology
Talking about money shouldn’t feel like a career-limiting move—yet for many women in tech, negotiating salary is laced with fear, second-guessing, and a sprinkle of imposter syndrome. In this candid and high-impact panel, we’ll break the silence (and the stigma) around compensation conversations.
You’ll hear from women who’ve boldly negotiated major salary jumps, learned tough lessons from missed promotions, and empowered others to do the same. We’ll dig into the gender pay gap in tech—not just what it is, but why it stubbornly sticks around—and equip you with practical strategies, and the mindset shifts needed to confidently ask for what you’re worth. Plus, we’ll tackle the myth that negotiation only happens at the offer stage—spoiler: the best time to ask might be long after you’ve started the job.
In this dynamic panel, the moderator will guide the conversation with a mix of direct questions and real-world scenarios to spark honest, practical discussion—ensuring each speaker’s unique experience and voice comes through. Our panelists bring diverse perspectives: from those who’ve boldly negotiated their way into six-figure roles, to others who learned the hard way by settling too soon or staying too quiet. This diversity sets the stage for a lively conversation—especially around the core tension of knowing when to push, when to pause, and how to ask without apology. Together, we’ll explore how to research your market value without relying on vibes, what to say (and avoid) in negotiation talks. We’ll cover how to navigate timing—including mid-role asks, not just job offers—and demystify conversations about equity, bonuses, and perks. Attendees will leave with not just tips, but skills: how to advocate for themselves with clarity, confidence, and strategy. Most importantly, they’ll gain a fresh perspective on negotiation—not as a battle, but as a career-long behavior worth mastering.
Bio
Brianna Mersey turns complex data into clear strategy. As a data and analytics leader at .Monks, she oversees an exceptional North American team that delivers innovative solutions in marketing technology, AI, and machine learning. With 20+ years of experience, Brianna has a track record of driving transformation, guiding teams, and helping brands harness data for impact. Armed with a B.S. in Computer Science and an MES in International Studies, she splits her time between Vancouver and Cape Town—always chasing sunshine and avoiding bad weather.