Working in local government, I got to experience an annual performance review for the first 15 years of my career. I hated them. Not because a boss berated me or used it as an opportunity to tell me how many mistakes I made, but because I always found it awkward to hear someone else focus solely on me and my work.
For a few years I even had a boss who asked me to start the process by evaluating myself. Listen, I’ve always been a perfectionist and overachiever. I only had one B in college, and it still eats at me. But asking me to list all my glowing attributes, hard pass.
I eventually learned to get over it. I realized that if I ever wanted a promotion, new job, or new client, then I would have to sell myself. And that meant talking about myself, specifically the great work I do and the skills and assets I bring to the table. And knowing our worth, and not shying away from it, is exactly the conversation we had on this week’s BONUS episode of the Fundraising HayDay podcast HERE.
Julie Boll once again joined us as the interviewer. Two months ago, she posted on LinkedIn with a list of propaganda she’s not falling for. (You can read her viral post HERE.) We continued the conversation she started on our podcast.
Here’s what we discussed:
These are all lessons I’ve learned over time. The first couple of jobs offered to me, I didn’t even consider negotiating a salary. I simply accepted what was offered. Now, I go in knowing what I need to meet my financial goals and what I deserve based on my years of experience and know-how. And I am not afraid to name that price out loud. And you know what, to date I haven’t lost a job or a client over it.
In the podcast episode, we talked about how things don’t always go to plan. And that’s okay. This just shows the value and importance of networks and individuals who can help you when needed. Truthfully, since 2015, every client and job I’ve worked is because of a connection I had made over the years. I’ve met people through the Grant Professionals Association, my connections in local governments across Metro Atlanta, and through friends. Having people who know your true value and will have your back, can mean the difference between success and failure.
Whether you are an employee of an organization or a consultant, I want to remind you of your worth. Grant professionals bring so much to the table. We don’t just write grants – we assess programs, help build budgets, conduct strategic research, draft beautifully crafted proposals, build relationships, translate jargon into everyday language, educate up, manage grants, implement projects, and so much more. There is value to our work. Remember that.
And check out our bonus episode. Julie unpacks a lot with me and Kimberly. If it can help your next venture in any way, then my day is made.
Check out all our episodes, and don’t miss any new ones, by subscribing on Apple Podcasts or Spotify today!
The Fundraising HayDay Podcast charted on the 90 Best Fundraising Podcast list compiled by Feedspot . In fact, we landed at spot #4.
Thanks to our listeners and supporters! This is such a passion project for us, and we trust you love it as much as we do.
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