A recent study at Notre Dame found that being agreeable—acting more cooperatively and placing greater value on relationships—equates to less pay. Although the negative effect of “playing nice” showed up more for men than women, agreeableness has a similarly negative effect on earnings at least in the US. The study included thousands of Americans.
In this time when collaboration is touted, it looks like the strong voice of dissent is still valued. There might still be a double standard where men are called “honest and direct” and women are called “bitchy” when we voice contrary views, yet strongly standing up for what we believe pays more.
Regardless of what they call you, this is good news for strong, smart women.
Of course, it is always risky business when we chop someone’s head off in the process of delivering our views. There can be a backlash for that behavior.
It is wiser to present your view without slamming other people, showing the well-thought path you took to formulate your ideas as well as the vision of the impact you think you can make. Keep your head above the battle.
Your voice needs to be heard! It’s worth it on many levels.
