Making Sense of the Salary Range

Salary ranges vary widely based on experience, position, and industry, but no matter the numbers, every employee wants to rise to the top.

Whether you’ve landed well-deserved raises over the years or you’ve started a new position on the high end of the pay band, finding yourself in the high-rent district of your given salary range means more money in your pocket … but less room to grow. It can be lonely at the top for several reasons:

• High Expectations: Taking on a new role near the top of the range ranks you alongside more experienced coworkers. Your employer likely expects a fast start.
• Raising Concerns: While your employer may make cost-of-living adjustments to the salary band on occasion, it’s not guaranteed. The closer you get to the end of the range, the more likely you could face a year with limited (or no) base-pay increase. And that means …
• The End is Near?: Employers know when you’re nearing these pay maximums, and while some may work with high-performing employees to find better-paying roles, others may look at these workers as flight risks, ready to move on to an opportunity with a greater upside.

So, what’s the solution? If you’re considering a job offer that puts you at the very top of the range, at least think about widening your search – with no room for growth, you could be back on the market before too long.

If you’re already in a position and have climbed the range, your employer may reach out to discuss retention options: Be ready with your salary research, be open to ideas involving bonuses and alternate pay arrangements, and don’t be shy about suggesting a promotion … and a new salary band.

Learn more about dealing with salary-range situations at this link.

Event Spotlight: Fuel Your Focus

What: A FREE Feb. 6 webinar with special guest Nick Barringer – the first active duty dietitian to graduate from Army Ranger School and serve with the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Why: You may chalk up a bout of brain fog, or an occasional feeling of fatigue even after a full night’s sleep, to age. Or to stress. Or to … well, to most anything. But your diet plays a critical role to maintaining (and improving) a high-functioning brain and body. No matter how old you are, or how healthy you feel, Nick will translate nutritional theory into real-world tips that will help you improve your focus and your performance.

Who: Anyone can benefit from this guidance, but it should be of special interest to:

• Job-seekers: Whether you’re between employers or trying to find the escape hatch for your current position, stress can lead to poor eating choices. Learn how to avoid bad habits.
• Transitioning servicemembers (and their spouses): Leaving uniform brings along untold (and often unexpected) challenges. Learn how a better diet can help protect you from all manner of distractions.
• Retirees. Need help moving away from a workday-based routine and finding a healthy approach for your future? We’ve got you covered.

How: Register Today!

Get More From MOAA!

Thank you for checking out this week’s issue of Your Next Step: MOAA’s Military Transition Report. If you’re one of our 10,000 SUBSCRIBERS, we appreciate it. If not, subscribe today, and don't forget to share these tips and others from MOAA with your network.

While you're at it:

• Join MOAA's Career and Networking Group on LinkedIn.
• Find a MOAA chapter near you, or connect with a MOAA virtual chapter.
• Bookmark MOAA’s Transition and Career page and stay up to date on all the latest MOAA news, events, webinars, and so much more!

Not a Member? Learn How You Can Join MOAA Today (It’s Free!)