SkillGigs’ #1 Tip to Discuss Pay at Work

Discussing salary in the workplace can be challenging, with many labeling it the most dreaded topic. However, avoiding the topic all together may carry big consequences that can lead to high employee turnover and poor company morale.???

As uncomfortable and intimidating as it may be to discuss pay, the reality is that you must take part in the conversations that impact change to see a change. SkillGigs is all about leveling the field and equipping individuals to take control. Therefore, we want to help in approaching management to discuss salary because it doesn’t have to be scary. We recently wrote a blog post about the top 5 tips, but we thought for our LinkedIn crew, we’d call out our #1 tip.??

And that tip is: DO YOUR RESEARCH. ??

Preparation is Key?

Pay discussions are challenging, but they can be more challenging if you don't know how to handle them. You don't have control of the outcome, as you don't know what your manager will bring to the table, but you do have control over how you prepare for it. Keep in mind that discussing salary is a form of negotiation. Arm yourself with the correct information before you talk numbers — it will make a difference in your confidence, approach, and the potential success of your salary discussion.???

To prepare for your salary discussion, you must research the job market in your state and even in your city. Knowing your area's job market is essential to better understand what others in your same role are doing, getting paid and how it compares to you.???

When researching the cost of living, tenure, growth in your position, and KPIs for your specific role are also things to consider. Once you have all this information on hand, you can ensure that your conversation will be based on accurate data.??

What is your value to the company???

When a job offer was given, that was the moment that both employer and employee agreed they could be good for each other. Both parties agreed on salary and role responsibilities, but as time passes by, responsibilities could change. The research you have done will come in handy if that's the case. Focus on the value you have brought to the company through your tenure. This is not an opportunity to compare your salary against your current peers.???

Even with your thorough research and work accomplishments, there is a chance that you won't get the raise you desire. So, be open to listening to your manager's feedback and ideas that can still compensate your work efforts, such as bonuses, increased PTO, and promotions.???

Engaging in Healthy Salary Discussions Helps??

Employers benefit from engaging in intelligent, effective, and healthy salary discussions to provide an equal opportunity work environment. In addition, a company that fosters an open-door policy around pay empowers employees to advocate for themselves in a healthy professional manner when the time comes.???

SkillGigs understands the importance of advocating for yourself. You know your worth, but it goes further than that. Job market research will keep you grounded and informed on how to best tackle a conversation that is already an intimidating one because facts carry weight.??

Sign up today and experience a level of pay transparency you haven’t seen yet!??