What do you do if your mid-career urban planning salary and benefits are not satisfactory?

1 Assess Reality

Before making any bold moves, take a moment to objectively assess your current salary and benefits. It's crucial to understand the market rate for urban planners with your level of experience and in your geographical area. Research job postings, network with peers, and possibly consult with a professional organization specializing in urban planning to gauge whether your compensation is truly below par. This information will serve as a benchmark for your next steps and empower you with data to support your case.

2 Enhance Skills

If your salary isn't where you want it to be, consider investing in professional development. Urban planning is a dynamic field, and staying abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and methodologies can make you more valuable to your employer or more competitive in the job market. Look into certifications, workshops, or advanced degrees that can broaden your expertise in areas such as sustainable design, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), or public policy.

3 Network Actively

Networking is a powerful tool in any profession, but especially in urban planning where community and stakeholder engagement is key. Attend industry conferences, join urban planning associations, and connect with alumni from your alma mater. Building a robust professional network can open doors to job opportunities with better compensation or provide you with mentors who can offer guidance on navigating your career trajectory.

4 Negotiate Firmly

Armed with research and new skills, you may be in a position to negotiate your current salary and benefits. Approach your employer with a clear and concise case for why your compensation should be adjusted. Highlight your achievements, responsibilities, and the value you bring to the organization. Remember, negotiation is a skill, and it's important to be prepared for back-and-forth dialogue with your employer.

5 Consider Relocating

Sometimes the solution to unsatisfactory compensation may lie in a different geographical market. Urban planners in high-demand areas or cities with a high cost of living often earn more. If you're open to relocating, research cities that are investing heavily in urban development and have a higher pay scale for planning professionals. Relocating can also offer new challenges and growth opportunities in your career.

6 Explore Alternatives

If all else fails, it might be time to consider alternative career paths that can utilize your urban planning expertise. Related fields such as real estate development, environmental consulting, or public administration might offer the salary and benefits you're looking for. Additionally, some urban planners find success in academia, teaching the next generation of planners while conducting research in areas of interest.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?