I love talking about money. I mean, you already know that, but in real life it's even more awesome.
Asians don't shy away from money talk, but I was always raised to remember that it's a taboo topic in wider society here.
And so, I've been ridiculously stoked to be part of honest conversations with various colleagues about money over the past year or two.
Day to day we talk about the cost of housing, cars, travel. But pay is always a sensitive area, and one I've never felt safe broaching unless it's around the time that I'm leaving that job - just before, or just after.
Every time it's started with general discussions, tiptoeing around the subject and talking in percentages or just very vaguely. And then, the other person has come out with a number first. (Cue reciprocity.)
I've been surprised at how happy others are to disclose numbers, but in a good way - more transparency FTW.
Also, two thumbs up for the rad female bosses I've had who have encouraged me to negotiate pay.
Shameless plug: Next week is NZ Money Week, a campaign that I've been involved with through work. There's a number of events - workshops, seminars - happening around the country (see moneyweek.org.nz) and if you take this quick quiz you can enter to win a Les Mills gym membership plus some time with an authorised financial adviser.
