The 99 Cent Decision That Costs You $11,000

Ninety-nine cents per hour. Most people would say that's not worth an awkward negotiation conversation. But what if that 99-cent decision costs you $11,000 over five years?

In this episode, Dr. Bruce Brown breaks down the real math behind salary negotiations and why small differences compound into life-changing money. Using a baseline salary of $41,200, he demonstrates how a simple 5% negotiation ($2,060 more annually) represents just 99 cents per hour—but grows to nearly $11,000 in missed earnings over five years with standard 3% annual raises.

This week's deep dive: Security Guards in Florida earn a median salary of $36,090, ranking 41st nationally. We compare Florida's numbers to top-paying states like DC ($63,130) and explore why geography, cost of living, and state taxes all factor into your total compensation picture.

Key Takeaways:

• Why your brain isn't wired for compound salary thinking
• The $11K-$26K cost of not negotiating (depending on salary level)
• Security guard salary ranges across all 50 states + DC
• How to approach salary negotiations with data, grace, and respect
• Why your first negotiation sets the trajectory for your entire career

Whether you're making $40K or $100K, this episode shows why every salary decision compounds—and how to make sure you're not leaving money on the table.

Resources mentioned:

• Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis median salary data
• Median Monday Instagram series (@WhatItPays)
• What It Pays newsletter signup (whatitpays.com)

Have questions? Email [e-mail] with your salary questions, career wins, or the HR question you've always wanted to ask.