Get Paid What You’re Worth with Mick Mize

Meet Mick, someone who thrives on diverse interests and dynamic experiences. From early days in theater to a current passion for coaching, Mick’s journey has been about embracing learning, creativity, and connection. Here’s a glimpse into Mick’s life and some valuable advice for remote workers navigating the complexities of compensation and self-worth.

Acting was Mick’s first love. High school theater was where Mick felt most at home, and this passion continued into Mick’s 20s and 30s. Alongside theater, Mick always loved learning new things and juggling multiple projects. Sci-fi novels, running, video games, and spending time with Mick’s kids are favorite pastimes. A cherished tradition with Mick’s spouse is Surprise Movie Nights, where each picks a movie the other will love, keeping curiosity and excitement alive.

Path to Coaching

Coming from a family of teachers, education was always in Mick’s blood. Mick spent nearly seven years in the tech industry, enjoying client interactions. Eventually, Mick found a calling as a career coach, leading to the current role as a personal and business coach. This job is incredibly fulfilling, offering the chance to engage in deep, meaningful conversations and help people achieve their goals.

The Best Part of Coaching

The most rewarding aspect of coaching is helping people realize their potential. People often forget how powerful they are and how much they can achieve. Being there to facilitate that awareness and action is truly impactful for Mick.

Assessing Skills and Negotiating Compensation

Accurately assessing skills, experience, and contributions starts with self-worth. Here are some steps Mick suggests to help confidently negotiate fair compensation:

Self-Worth: Believe in skills and value. Ask friends and coworkers for feedback to gain a clearer picture of capabilities.

Market Perspective: Understand that the job market is about matching skills to needs, not a judgement of personal worth. Recognize value in terms of the work that can be done.

Cultivating Confidence: Surround oneself with supportive people and seek inspiring literature. Create an environment that reinforces belief in one’s value.

Strategies for Remote Workers

Remote workers can often feel isolated, making it harder to maintain a strong sense of self-worth. Mick offers these tips to cultivate confidence and negotiate effectively:

• Research: Know industry standards and the value of one’s role. This knowledge empowers negotiation from a position of strength.
• Asset Inventory: Document skills and achievements. Understand what makes one valuable to employers.
• Community Support: Engage with friends, colleagues, and mentors. Their feedback and encouragement can boost confidence.

Approaching Compensation Discussions

To approach compensation discussions from a place of empowerment, practice is key. Mick suggests the following preparation steps:

• Practice: Just like practising a musical instrument or a sport, practice negotiation skills with a friend or coach.
• Preparation: Use research and asset inventory to build a strong case for value.
• Support Network: Lean on the community for support and feedback. They can help refine the approach and bolster confidence.

Practical Exercises for Enhancing Self-Assessment

Mick recommends these exercises to better assess value and articulate it confidently:

• Asset Inventory: Partner with someone to exchange insights about each other’s strengths. This mutual support can be incredibly empowering.
• Community Engagement: Don’t rely solely on self-assessment. Engage with friends, join communities, and seek coaching. The more one interacts with supportive people, the easier it will be to trust their positive feedback.

For those interested in ongoing support, Mick offers a group coaching program focused on mindset maintenance. Originally for job seekers, it’s now open to anyone needing mindset support. The program includes sharing strategies, group discussions, and setting intentions for the week ahead. Interested individuals can email Mick at coachmick@pm.me for more information.

Navigating the complexities of compensation and self-worth as a remote worker can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, it’s entirely possible. Mick advises to believe in one’s value, prepare thoroughly, and seek support from the community. With these tools, anyone can confidently negotiate and achieve the compensation they deserve.

Written by: Andreea Gatin (Community & Events Manager)