04 Apr How can I tell if I am being underpaid?
Many employees work countless hours and allocate a substantial amount of their effort for their job. At times, employees can wonder whether they are getting paid enough for energy they are expending. When work presents greater challenges or responsibilities, it can be hard to avoid questioning your current pay.
However, wondering if you deserve more compensation is normal and a good inquiry to have. It means you are probably working hard and want to excel further in your career. If you are wondering whether these thoughts are justified, there are some ways to tell whether you are being underpaid and could reasonably ask for more.
5 ways that can indicate you are being underpaid, and should ask for more:
If your work duties have expanded. If you have been consistently given more tasks at work and recognize that your responsibilities have shifted, it may be time to have a discussion for an increase in pay with your employer. If your job now has more demands than when you were first offered your salary, there is a good chance you should be receiving more pay or benefits.
You have been an employee with the company for many years. If you have worked with the same company for over five years and your salary has not changed, there is a significant chance your employer is not paying enough for your experience and expertise. Staying with the same company for an extended period doesn’t only show loyalty and dedication, it also demonstrates a level of skill and knowledge of the company that not many others have, which is most likely worth greater pay.
Most employees in parallel positions to yours are receiving more compensation. If you have done research online and the average pay for your position is higher than your current pay, you have every right to ask your employer for more.
If your salary has stayed the same and hasn’t shifted with inflation. This is a clear sign of being underpaid because salaries should be naturally shifting as inflation increases. Employers should always consider cost of living when providing employees with their salaries. For example, in a city with expensive rent, groceries, commuting costs etc. these jobs should be offering more just because of their location.
You have been offered a new job that pays more. If you have been offered a new job that is offering more pay, it is reasonable to think you may be underpaid in your current role. If other jobs are offering you more, it is because they believe that is how your skills are valued at present comparative to other hires.
If you believe you are being underpaid and would like to consult a lawyer, please contact KCY at LAW by filling in an online consultation request or contact us by phone at 905-639-0999 to book your consultation today.