WWYD regarding salary?

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We are constantly being told that, as women, we sell ourselves short and settle for lower salaries whereas men negotiate better.

I had a somewhat successful career but took a bit of a career break for a couple of years. I have been working but not full time, not in the same sector and not earning anything like I was and was not feeling fulfilled.

Now I am looking to move back into my career. There is a pandemic and a recession. Should I be taking a 20% pay cut from what I used to earn? The obvious answer is yes given the current circumstances. I just need someone else to give me their thoughts.

NC as this is incredibly outing.

You're worth what someone is prepared to pay you, so really it's the market that determines your salary. Which at the moment is difficult for everyone.

You should look for whatever the market rate is. In some professions that has changed recently so do plenty of research to see whether a 20% cut is now normal.

How is this outing?

I think it depends what you have been offered and what, realistically, the prospects are in your industry. If you’re wanting to get back to work then 80% of your previous salary is better than zero, especially if it’s a potential stepping stone for the future.

I know what the market rate is up until the spring. I don't think it's possible to say exactly what the market rate is based on the last couple of months. From people I know and what I've heard, a small percentage have taken a pay cut but many have been working from home on the same pay.

I'm aware I'm incredibly lucky to have the option of a role in the current climate.