Taking the Risk: Negotiating with Confidence and Clarity with Lauren Valentine

presented by the Women In Business Committee of the Colonie Chamber

Women are often taught to be prepared, collaborative, and accommodating. It’s less common that we are taught how to take smart risks or negotiate from a position of strength. In this interactive session, we’ll challenge common myths around negotiation and unpack why so many capable women hesitate to ask for more, speak up, or hold firm in high-stakes conversations.

Drawing from proven Sandler principles and real-world business scenarios, this session will help participants:

• Reframe risk as a strategic advantage rather than something to avoid

• Navigate negotiations with confidence, not concession

• Communicate value clearly without over-explaining or apologizing

• Hold equal footing in conversations involving money, influence, and decision-making

Attendees will leave with practical tools, language frameworks, and a renewed mindset to advocate for themselves, their ideas, and their worth. Whether you’re negotiating a deal, a promotion, or your next bold move, this session will equip you to lead the conversation with confidence.