At women's tech event, Microsoft CEO says women need not ask for raise, should trust system

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says women don't need to ask for a raise. They should just trust the system — one that at technology companies is overwhelmingly male.

Nadella spoke Thursday at an event for women in computing held in Arizona. He was asked to give his advice to women who are uncomfortable requesting a raise.

He replied that women should have faith that the system will give them the right raises as they go along. He added that not asking for a raise is "good karma."

Nadella was interviewed by Maria Klawe, the president of Harvey Mudd College and a Microsoft director. She told him she disagrees, drawing cheers from the audience. She suggested women do their homework on salary information and first practice asking with people they trust.