You've negotiated your salary carefully. How can you handle learning a less experienced colleague earns more?

Reframe the Situation You’ve got experience, and while it seems undervalued now, things can change. The key is understanding that experience isn’t just about years worked; it’s about the depth of insight, the quality of judgment, and the perspective you bring. Data backs this up: research shows that seasoned employees contribute significantly to a company’s resilience and innovation. Studies have shown that older workers exhibit more decisive leadership, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence than their younger counterparts. Companies that recognize and harness the strengths of their most experienced employees are 2-3 times more likely to succeed in times of disruption. Pivot your mindset and focus on your unique value proposition.

If you discover that a less experienced colleague earns more despite your careful negotiation, approach the situation thoughtfully. Start by assessing your feelings and the situation objectively. Schedule a private meeting with your manager or HR to discuss your concerns. Focus on your achievements, contributions, and market value to make a case for a salary review or adjustment. Frame the conversation around your professional growth and the added value you bring to the team, rather than comparing directly with the colleague. This approach helps maintain a positive dialogue and reinforces your value without creating unnecessary tension.

Emphasize your unique contributions and seek a conversation with your manager to understand the salary structure. Use this insight to evaluate your growth potential and determine if further negotiation is appropriate.

Discovering a less experienced colleague earns more can trigger frustration, confusion, or self-doubt. It's natural to feel undervalued or question your negotiation. However, staying calm and focusing on constructive solutions, like discussing pay equity with management, can help address the situation professionally.

Assessing Emotions and Responding Strategically When faced with the unexpected news of a less experienced colleague earning more, it's natural to experience a range of emotions. Take a moment to acknowledge these feelings privately, allowing yourself to process them without reacting impulsively. This will help you maintain composure and avoid damaging professional relationships. Use this time to reflect on how this information affects your perception of your worth within the organization. Consider whether your current compensation aligns with your contributions and experience. This self-reflection can provide valuable insights into your career goals and potential next steps.

Gather Information: If comfortable, seek to understand the rationale behind their higher salary, such as different responsibilities, specialized skills, or negotiation tactics.

To gather facts, start by understanding the full scope of the colleague's role, responsibilities, and any additional qualifications or skills they may have. Research industry salary benchmarks for similar positions, and review your own compensation package, including benefits and bonuses. Finally, consider discussing the situation with HR to clarify any potential discrepancies or policies regarding pay.

After calming down, it's important to seek additional information. Salary decisions are influenced by various factors, such as market rates, individual contributions, and negotiated terms. Instead of focusing on confrontation, approach the situation with curiosity. If appropriate, consider having a discreet conversation with your manager to understand the factors that contribute to salary determination. This can provide valuable insights into the organization's compensation practices and help you assess your own position more objectively. Remember to maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout the conversation.

To evaluate your position, consider your experience, skills, and contributions compared to your colleague’s. Reflect on the value you bring to the company, your performance history, and any unique qualifications. Assess if there are gaps in your current role or compensation that could be negotiated, or if your position warrants an adjustment based on the new information.

Once you have gathered information about the factors influencing salary decisions, it's time to assess your own value within the organization. Consider your experience, contributions, and any unique skills you bring to the table. If you have taken on additional responsibilities or improved your qualifications since your last salary negotiation, these factors might justify a discussion about a pay adjustment. Remember that while salary is not the only indicator of your professional worth, it plays a significant role in your overall job satisfaction.

Assess Your Position: Consider whether your current compensation aligns with your long-term career goals and job satisfaction.

Open a Dialogue: If you're comfortable, discuss your salary with your manager, framing it as a conversation about your career growth and contributions rather than a complaint about your colleague's pay.