At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, held in October, a panel discussion featuring Lila Preston, Andrea Thomaz, and Zeya Yang provided valuable guidance to professionals seeking substantial salary increases at a later stage in their careers. The panelists emphasized the importance of proactive career planning.
Preston highlighted the need for continuous skill development and the pursuit of challenging projects to demonstrate increasing value to employers. She advised attendees to document their accomplishments meticulously, providing concrete examples of their contributions and impact.
Thomaz focused on the significance of networking and building strong professional relationships. She stressed the importance of maintaining open communication with managers, seeking regular feedback, and actively participating in company initiatives. This, she explained, builds trust and demonstrates commitment, crucial factors in salary negotiations.
Yang offered practical advice on the negotiation process itself. She suggested having a clear understanding of one’s market value, researching industry benchmarks, and preparing a compelling case for a raise, including quantifiable results achieved. She also emphasized the importance of maintaining a professional and confident demeanor during negotiations.
The panel also addressed common challenges faced by professionals seeking later-stage raises, such as overcoming biases and navigating organizational structures. They discussed strategies for addressing these challenges effectively, including identifying key stakeholders and building consensus.
The speakers underscored the importance of understanding the company’s financial performance and its ability to support salary increases. They advised against demanding raises without considering the overall financial health of the organization.
Preston, Thomaz, and Yang concluded by emphasizing the value of self-advocacy and the importance of pursuing one’s career goals with confidence and determination. The session at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 offered attendees a practical framework for navigating the complexities of salary negotiations and achieving their desired compensation. The event itself ran from October 27th to the 29th.
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