"Prepare for the meeting" — Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran shares tips for securing a raise

One of the OG Shark Tank investors, Barbara Corcoran, is famous for her straightforward approach to professional and business development. In an Instagram reel recently shared from her official account, she gave insightful advice on how employees can effectively negotiate a raise. Barbara, who has years of experience in starting and investing in businesses, stressed that asking for a higher wage isn't enough; you also need to be confident and strategically prepared.

One of her main pieces of advice is to be well-prepared before striking up a discussion. She advises working professionals to compile evidence of their contributions that demonstrate their beneficial effects on the business. Barbara emphasizes the significance of presenting a compelling argument, regardless of the outcome, more income, more productivity, or successful initiatives.

"You want to prepare for the meeting," she said.

In addition to preparation, Barbara advises professionals to project confidence and keep a cheerful demeanor throughout negotiations. She recommends focusing the discussion on a number in mind rather than making vague requests. Employees can improve their prospects of receiving a raise and enhancing their standing at work by heeding her recommendations.

---

Shark Tank investor Barbara Corcoran shares tips to score a raise at work

On March 31, 2025, a Shark Tank expert shared a video from her Instagram account where she shares important tips for working professionals based on her years of business experience.

"If you're going in to ask for a raise, there are two things that you wanna bear in mind," she said as the video begins.

She reveals a couple of important secrets that someone seeking a raise at work can implement and improve their chances.

---

Tip 1: Make a list and prepare for the meeting

In the video, Shark Tank investor Barbara Corcoran says that being well-prepared is one of the most important ways to get a raise. She advises employees to make two lists before they approach their boss: one listing all the duties they were initially hired to perform and another listing all the extra duties they've started.

"You want to prepare for the meeting by making a list of everything you were hired for and then make a list of everything you're actually doing right now and share that with your boss."

This gives specific proof of your growing value and helps highlight your advancement within the organization.

---

Tip 2: Have a number in mind

For her second tip, Corcoran highlights the importance of having a certain number in mind before one starts a raise request conversation. Shark Tank OG suggests that instead of waiting for the employer to decide, employees should be clear about what they anticipate.

"The other thing you must do is name a figure. Don't go in there and say you want a raise. Say you want a 10% raise and you're in a much better negotiation position to maybe get 8%. Name the number."

Having a well-researched salary figure backed by industry standards and personal contributions strengthens your case for a raise.

---

You can watch more informative videos on Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran's official Instagram account.