How to Have Salary Talk with Coworkers
People have different opinions when it comes to have salary talk with coworkers. Some people may consider it a taboo, while others are pretty open about it. Let’s not forget about corporate policy about salary transparency, either. Some companies are casual enough about opening up about the salaries, while some are pretty tight-lipped about it and they encourage their employees from doing the same.
Salary Talk with Coworkers: Should You Do It?
Some people say that talking about salary isn’t a proper thing to do. It may cause conflict among the employees and possible resentment toward the employer. You may end up feeling not confident or even under-appreciated. If you don’t have the feeling, it’s possible that other people who feel that way.
However, some people embrace the idea because they value transparency and openness. They can also learn about whom makes what (and how much) so they can learn about their expertise and abilities. In short, you need to prepare yourself
It’s crucial that you are updated about the rate that matches your expertise so you really know how much you are worth it.
Understand the Rules
Before you can have salary talks, especially with your coworkers, make sure that you understand the company’s policies. Some companies dislike their employees talking about salary among themselves. Some, however, don’t really mind about it as they encourage democracy and transparency. The regulations about it are usually written in the fine print of your contract. So, before you initiate the talk, you need to check whether the place you are working now has such regulations. Check your contract and make your move from there.
Establish Good Relationship
Salary is basically a sensitive matter, and not everyone is happy to talk about it. If you want to talk about it with your coworkers, make sure that you have established a good relationship, even trust, with the person. You should also learn whether the topic would make the person (or people) upset or not. If they are basically sensitive people who may be disturbed or concerned about the issue, then don’t. You are responsible for controlling your emotion and feeling, but you won’t be able to do the same with other people. If they are easily upset or discouraged or not confident, your talk may be responsible for their future ‘emotional turmoil'. Be wise.
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Have a Conversational Manner
Avoid looking so ‘formal’ when having the talk. Remember, you are having a talk between friends, not a formal detailing conversation. Try to be casual and laid-back, but take it seriously. Keep everything in your head. No need to note it down; your coworkers may have the feeling that they are being interviewed or even interrogated. Once they feel such a thing, you lose your opportunity to have a friendly conversation.
Consider Safer Options
The safer way is to talk to those who have left the company. It’s also possible to talk to those who move departments. If you do this, the possibility to cause heartache, resentment, or discomfort among employees can be minimized. If you can find a way to manage this, it would be great.
These are some of the ways that you can do this talk safely and smartly. Who says salary talk with coworkers mostly leads to uncomfortable situations and resentment?
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