Negotiation, Leadership & Boardroom Strategy with Michelle Merritt

In this episode of BizBlend, host Sana dives deep with executive career strategist Michelle Merritt to uncover what it truly takes to design a strategic career, negotiate high-stakes compensation, and secure a boardroom seat. With decades of experience coaching C-suite leaders and sitting on over 30 boards herself, Michelle breaks down the mental roadblocks around asking for your worth, reveals the strategy behind board readiness, and shares real-world negotiation stories that redefine executive presence. Whether you're pivoting careers or reaching for a board seat, this conversation is packed with insights for leading your own career with precision.

About the Guest:
Michelle Merritt is the Managing Partner at DSC Executive Career Management, a trusted advisor to senior leaders and board candidates. With 20+ years of experience, she specializes in executive career pivots, compensation strategy, and board positioning. Known for her strategic clarity and grounded advice, Michelle helps leaders not just get the role—but own the room.

Key Takeaways:

• Executives often plateau because they rely on past performance, not future-focused strategy.

• Compensation negotiation begins at the first conversation, not the final offer.

• Know your "automatic yes" and "automatic no" before any negotiation.

• Being “board ready” requires governance-focused experience, not just operational excellence.

• Telling your network you want a board role is essential—visibility drives opportunity.

Connect with the Guest:

• LinkedIn: Michelle Merritt

• Email: https://www.dscareermanagement.com

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