That awkward moment when you realize you are the lowest paid (or underpaid) at your company when you thought your salary was comparable to some of your colleagues. Initially, you’re probably infuriated then you more than likely fall into a mini-state of depression and your production declines. After the realization that you are underpaid/undervalued you need to take the appropriate actions to ensure you are fairly compensated. YPs you have choices, I believe in being grateful for employment but whether you’re stocking shelves or a mid level manager its not cool to feel like you’re not being fairly compensated for your work. What do you do to ensure you are fairly compensated?
Step One: First you perform a self evaluation. Make sure you are performing your job and job duties adequately. Then take a good look at your current position in the big scheme of things in regards to your company. How vital is your current position? Be honest with yourself because no position is created equally. Some positions are held in a higher regard than others so look at your position in comparison to other positions within your company. If your position is not vital then you may want to seek a promotion if your work ethic warrants a promotion. If your position is pretty important then proceed to the next step.
Step Two: Take a look at your job description to assess how accurately it reflects what you actually do. Most people do more or less or different tasks from what their job descriptions say they do in their positions. Ask your supervisor/manager to make updates (if applicable) regarding tasks/duties you perform that are not included in your current job description. If your position has evolved enough you may be able to have human resources (HR) re-evaluate your position for a possible pay raise. If your job description is accurate then seek promotion or another position else where but make no moves until you have secured that new position.
Step Three: A promotion or another position (internally or externally) may be your only option if the aformentioned does not apply. In addition, seek opportunities to add to your credentials whether it’s by way of training on something new, gaining a certification, going back to school, volunteering for special projects and so on. This will allow you to make yourself more marketable and more valued as an employee (possibly) resulting in fair compensation. The more credentials you have the better position/qualified you will be in for promotions and other positions.
YPs your current situation is not the end all be all. Keep in mind that tenure, relationships with your manager, your reputation as an employee play a role in opportunities for advancement that may be afforded to you internally and externally. If you are content then be content. If you want more then apply yourself more. If you want to be GREAT, then do what you have to do, so you can do what you want to do and you’ll never be underpaid/undervalued. What ever you do don’t settle and remember YPDSing’s PSA stated, “You Are Always Being Evaluated!!!” thus carry yourselves as consummate professionals at all times.
YPRuck, YoungProfessionals Writer
