If there's one topic that most people avoid more than a traumatized ex, it's... money. But is it time to change this mindset? According to career experts, yes! Talk about salary, be open, and don't let yourself be paid less than you're worth. Still not convinced? Here's why you should!
Yes, it's normal (and legal) to talk about salary.
If someone at work has ever told you that "you shouldn't talk about salary," then it's time to point out a legal fact: The Employment Act of 1935 gives employees the right to discuss salaries among themselves, whether in the office, on WhatsApp, or while sunbathing in a cafe.
To put it simply: no one can stop you from doing this.
Why should you discuss salary with colleagues?
1. Because information is power
You can't ask for a raise by simply saying, "I want more money." You need a strategy, and that requires information. And who has more information about salaries than your colleagues who do the same job as you?
2. Because wages are not always fair
No matter where you work, there's a good chance someone else is getting paid more for the same job - simply because they negotiated better. And that's true for women, who are often paid less than their male colleagues, even when they have the same skills and experience.
3. Because if you're underpaid, it's not your fault
Finding out that someone else is getting paid more for the same job can be a bummer, but don't take it personally. It doesn't mean you're worth less – it means the company's management is poor. And that can be fixed.
4. Because it helps your colleagues too
By sharing information, you not only help yourself, but also your colleagues get what they deserve. Plus, if more people ask for raises, companies will feel obligated to pay more fairly.
How to start a conversation without coming across as a salary detective?
Of course, it won't go over well if you approach a colleague with "Hey, how much do you get paid?" So here are some more elegant ways to broach the subject:
• “I’m thinking about asking for a raise and I’m gathering information. Do you have any advice?”
• “I know that in some companies, salaries vary for the same job. Have you ever heard of such a case?”
• “How did you do when you negotiated your salary?”
It's important not to start the conversation aggressively or show envy - the goal is to help each other.
Who should you discuss it with?
Not every colleague is the right person to share this information with. Start with someone you know and trust, someone who has similar responsibilities to you. If the company is small and doesn't have someone in the same role, you can talk to someone in a similar position in a different industry.
When something as simple as a conversation can change everything
At the end of the day, a fairer salary means less stress, more motivation, and a healthier work environment. Why keep a secret that can help yourself and others? Do it once, and you'll see that it's not as embarrassing as you think!
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