Ep 26. Building Confidence to Negotiate and Maximize Income with Samantha Hayes
Show Notes:
You know what the motto is over here: There is nothing wrong with enjoying what you do, loving your profession, helping people, AND wanting to be paid well to do it. In today’s episode, we’re talking all about knowing your worth and getting paid what you need, want, and most importantly - deserve! Our guest shares how she made well over six figures in her first year as an OT—without leaving clinician practice. She’ll explain how negotiating confidently played a key role in making it happen. Plus, we talk about student loans, time freedom, and the importance of financial balance. If you’re ready to boost your income, stand in your power, and never settle for less, this episode will give you all the inspiration and practical tips to get there!
In today’s show, we’re chatting about:
How Samantha’s passion for sports, fitness, and health influenced her decision to pursue OT
How student loan debt influenced Samantha’s ideal income range when starting her job hunt
Finding the balance between student loans and pursuing other financial goals
The full breakdown of how Samantha was able to maximize her income to well over six figures as a new graduate
Our top negotiation tips, tricks, and advice especially for new graduates to increase your chances of a successful negotiation
The correlation between experience and pay: should clinical experience always directly relate to pay?
Samantha’s private practice aspirations and journey
Samantha’s most important piece of advice for new OT graduates who are just starting their careers and want to maximize their earning potential
Guest Bio:
Originally from Indiana, I have been passionate about sports, fitness, and health since I was young. I earned my B.S. from Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, and then moved to Pittsburgh, PA, to complete my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. During my clinical training, I gained valuable experience working in ICU Burn and Trauma at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, IL, as well as in outpatient pediatrics. Currently, I am a licensed Occupational Therapist in both California and Indiana. In California, I worked in sub-acute rehab primarily with the adult and geriatric patient population primarily from low income or unhoused households. I am now excited to be in the process of opening my own private practice in my hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana in early 2025. In my free time, I enjoy hiking with my husband and our dog, staying active through strength training, trying new restaurants and tackling DIY projects around our home.
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