An excerpt appears below. Click here for the full article, written by Kelli Thompson, on the Marketwatch website.

For nearly eight years, I worked as a hiring manager and HR professional for financial services and technology organizations. My experience confirms what a lot of emerging data on the pay gap reveals — women are often more hesitant to apply for well-paying jobs, and negotiate less often, than men.

As employment rates rise, it’s more important than ever for women to know their worth and negotiate their pay. For women over 50 and nearing retirement, negotiating a higher salary can also help close the retirement savings gap with men. For starters, you will be earning more money that can be saved and a higher salary means your company may be contributing more toward your 401(k) plan.

An excerpt appears below. Click here for the full article, written by Kelli Thompson, on the Marketwatch website.