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You're probably shocked, scared, and even angry. But try to stay cool (at least on the outside); it could help you negotiate a bigger severance package. (more)

Are you a good negotiator?

To get what you want, you have to know how to ask for it. To see how strong your skills are, take this quiz, from Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever, the authors of Ask For It (2008, Bantam) and Women Don't Ask (2007, Bantam).

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8. You have a strong case for a bonus this year, but feel anxious about asking and worry your nerves will make you look like you think you don't deserve it.

Rather than wait till you feel more confident, you should go ahead and schedule the negotiation anyway.
Right!

Studies show that putting off a negotiation actually makes anxiety about it worse. Your built-up dread from procrastinating can heighten your stress when you finally get there. To calm your nerves, ask a friend or colleague to play your boss and role-play the meeting. Brief this person thoroughly and run through the negotiation repeatedly, with your friend taking a different approach each time. This preparation will give you a greater sense of control and -- research shows -- produce a better agreement.

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