Kelly Harry discovered she was underpaid early in her career when she realized her colleague was making significantly more money than her. This realization led to Harry researching the market and the value of her skills to determine the discrepancy in pay. The issue of underpayment is not uncommon in the workplace, with a significant number of workers failing to negotiate their salaries when receiving job offers.
There are various factors contributing to underpayment in the workforce, including the failure to negotiate salary, market conditions, and the phenomenon of wage compression. It’s essential to recognize that compensation is not based on a simple formula but rather a combination of factors such as years of experience, education, and location. Understanding where you fall within the range for your position is crucial to addressing underpayment effectively.
Negotiating Salary Adjustments
If you suspect you are being underpaid, one option is to request a salary adjustment from your employer. However, it’s essential to approach the conversation prepared with market research and highlights from your performance reviews. Avoid bringing up a co-worker’s name during the discussion and focus on demonstrating the impact you’ve brought to the company. Threats are not recommended during negotiations, as they may lead to negative outcomes.
If your employer is unreceptive to a salary adjustment, it may be time to consider other options, such as seeking opportunities elsewhere. Evaluating whether you are being paid what you’re worth compared to market value is crucial in deciding the next steps. Getting an outside offer can be used as leverage to negotiate more money from your current employer, but it’s important to handle the situation tactfully.
Knowing When to Move On
Sometimes, leaving your current job for a better opportunity may be the best course of action if your employer is unwilling to address underpayment issues. Kelly Harry found that jumping ship to a new opportunity resulted in a healthier work environment and better compensation. Ultimately, knowing your worth and being willing to explore alternative options is key to addressing workplace underpayment effectively.