Q & A Table of Contents
They Need Me But Aren't Paying
From: Ali, British Columbia, Canada
Question: I am working with a Native run pre school education program. They are trying to obtain licensing but need a current student in the field working there, me. Currently however they cannot pay me until their budget comes through in April. Is it ok for me to work now get paid later and ask that they pay my tuition without enrollment they cannot obtain licensing? I believe I'm in the right position to ask but I don't want to ask too much.
Response: If the program needs you and you need things the program can offer, it is a classic bargaining situation. You have every right to offer to trade things they value (your involvement and your qualifications) for things you value (pay and tuition assistance). This sounds like a very balanced negotiation situation in which you are certainly not asking too much.
One problem many people face is their fear that asking for anything makes them look bad. Actually the opposite is true. When you ask for things -- politely and without an attempt to be confrontational -- you are letting others know that you have interests that need to be served. Negotiation only succeeds, yielding a mutually acceptable agreement, when each party finds ways others can help them achieve their interests.
If you don't ask, you won't get. Go for it.
Good luck,
Steve
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