Feeling Stuck in a Low-Paying Job: How Do I Handle Being Undervalued and Overworked?

Dear Seniors,

I am in desperate need of your help. I am working as a Personal Assistant to the Managing Director of a Pvt Limited company, which has branches all over India but is based in Jammu. I have been working here for more than four years. After completing my 12th standard, my father passed away, and due to my family's financial problems, I joined this organization as an Accounts Auditor.

I continued my studies through correspondence mode and earned my graduation (BA with Marketing Management, Business Management, English, and Political Science). I demonstrated my capabilities within the organization, and within 1.5 years of my work tenure, I was promoted to PA to MD.

I have been working here for the past 2.5 years and have never applied to any other organization. I work approximately 12 to 15 hours each day and receive a meager salary of Rs. 6200 per month.

Now, I am really confused as some new candidates who are freshers and have MBA degrees have joined my office. They are earning more than Rs. 7500 per month and are trying to outshine me, putting me in an uncomfortable position.

I am very confused about what to do next. I cannot leave my job due to my family's financial situation, and I cannot work in an environment where my work is not valued, and my credibility is doubted.

Friends and Seniors, please help me as I am feeling very distressed due to this confusion and dilemma. Also, if you know of any job opportunities in or near Jammu, please suggest them to me.

I am eagerly awaiting your replies and valuable suggestions.

Regards,

Yuvraj

Dear Yuvraj,

There is no need for any confusion. If an MBA is paid Rs 7,500/-, then I would say it is a meager salary for them. Do you know how much investment they had in getting the MBA degree? If you feel that your market worth is high, then why don't you try somewhere else? At least, do an objective assessment of your career vis-a-vis your qualifications, skills, and knowledge.

Thanks,
Dinesh V Divekar

Hi,

MBA or no MBA, leave that. Please look for another job. Once you have given interviews and are confident that you are eligible for a higher salary in other organizations, ask your current organization for a good hike. If they agree, good. If they don't agree, please go ahead and join another company.

Best of luck to you.

Regards,
Shikha

According to me, as you are the PA to the MD, you can directly discuss this with your MD. Maybe he is not aware of this disparity in salary. He may understand your point as you are a long-time employee of the company.

Also, you should consider pursuing higher studies through correspondence and explore other available opportunities.

- S

Hi,

This is the classical problem of compensation companies face. This is one particular aspect that is taught in MBA classes and addressed with caution by the best compensation specialists in any company.

What Shikha & Dinesh say is perfectly alright. It is time you look for another job and when exiting from this company, clearly mention this to HR. Even before leaving this job, you can raise this concern with the right people in a very professional manner because the company has a right to know about this problem.

Many companies chart out various criteria based on which compensation is planned, and employees too don't feel cheated.

Suppose the company has a policy that the higher qualification (MBA) one has, the more pay (Rs 1000 extra) will be given, etc., it will not cause so much bad taste in the mouth.

Wish you all the best.

Thanks,
Geeta

Hi,

What I think is, you have to discuss this issue with your MD. As you have 4 years of experience, I think you are equivalent to an MBA. What I suggest is to upload your resume on job searching sites or contact a consultancy and talk to your MD. If they agree, then it's okay. If they don't, then consider switching to another organization as soon as you get a better opportunity. But until then, keep working there. If possible, try some correspondence MBA courses, which will increase your value everywhere.

Thanks,
Premlata

PA to MD holds a better position than a manager. I apologize if I'm offending any of the members, but this is a bitter truth. I once heard an MD saying, "If you sack my PA, I will resign" (it was due to the understanding he shared with that person).

Yuvraj, talk to your MD about your dilemma. Don't ask him to increase your salary directly, but let him know about your feelings. He might increase your salary or help you upgrade yourself. If you are comfortable in this job and salary is the only issue, I would suggest not thinking of quitting. Here, more than your degree, your experience is paying you. Make the most out of it!

Dear friend,

You can request a salary hike from your boss as it is meager. However, it is not advisable for you to compare your request with the salaries of MBA graduates. It is common for individuals with higher degrees to be given more preference. Nevertheless, your salary is not justified considering the additional responsibilities you bear.

Hi Yuvraj,

I agree with Premlata's advice. You can do as she said, but remember one thing – while asking for a hike in salary, you should not compare it with others' salary. You are fully eligible. Experienced persons are always valued everywhere. Ask your MD, or else you can find another job. Don't leave the job until you find a new one.

Thanks

Yuvraj-

Can you share the following details with us -

1. What do you actually do when you say that you are PA to MD?

2. What is the job role for the MBAs which are hired at your end - do these MBAs do the same work or are they assigned the same work that you are supposed to do?

I am asking these questions because:

1. If your work areas are different, then a different pay suffices.

2. If your work areas are similar, then there is a disparity in the pay.

To give you an example - if I hire someone for an executive role @ 2.40 LPA and an existing executive is drawing @ 1.80 LPA, then there is a disparity in their salaries if they share the same job role and are assigned to the same department. However, the disparity would be justified if both of them are working for a different department and have different work allocations.

All my esteemed colleagues over here haven't really explored the reason behind the disparity or otherwise, and hence reaching a conclusion based on the advice/views expressed by them won't lead you to a better decision.

Yuvraj, four years is a very long time. What I suggest is to speak to your MD and make him understand your four years of efforts. Surely, he will help you.

Dear Yuvraj,

You need not to look into what others are getting. You should know your caliber and abilities. Moreover, you can compare salary with your level, qualification, and experience. Kindly do not compare your salary with any other person out of your field. If you do so, you will not be able to serve anywhere. Take my example: My VP is just DME with 30 years of experience and is getting 19 Lacs salary. Myself, BA, LLB, MBA HR with 25 years of experience, and I am getting Rs 7 Lacs only. Can I compare with him? No, not at all. But certainly, in my company in HR and Admin, nobody is getting more than me. I think you have got your answer.

Regards,
S K Nain

Hi Yuvraj,

I agree with Trinity-Morpheus's posting. If your work areas are different, then there will be a salary difference. But if your work areas are the same, then why have they hired new persons? So the practical solution is that, if you are talking with your MD, then first analyze yourself and then only discuss. Otherwise, you will be in a problem. Also, try to pursue post-graduation through correspondence to improve your qualifications. But until that time, do not leave your present job.

My best wishes.

Regards,
Suvarna

Hi Yuvi, talk once (but once) to your MD and no one but him/her. Wait for his explanation. Else, scour for better jobs and keep on moving.

This is 2010 (almost!!!) dude, and loyalty is worth 0 in the market. Your career and life should be more important to you. Get a better job and keep on moving.

To take things further - a really good PA to CEO/MD in Mumbai, the salary could range from 8.00 LPA to 12.00 LPA. I know a few friends who are PAs and are earning more than me... Oops... and trust me when I say that these folks are BAs while I am a BSc, MBA, and pursuing a Ph.D... But guess what, they really excel in everything that's expected of them.

Comparison with others is not the best way, but with oneself, it is. :)

Firstly, congratulations on taking up such a significant responsibility following the passing of your father. You have shown great strength and maturity in facing this challenge. Not all sons are able to handle such situations, but you have stepped up admirably, becoming a role model in many aspects. Life teaches us valuable lessons that no MBA program can match, and you have excelled in this real-world test.

It is important to recognize that your relationship with your MD is crucial in your position. Building trust and maintaining confidentiality can bring you many benefits. In a private limited company, growth often depends less on academic qualifications like an MBA or CA. However, pursuing additional certifications such as MBA and CQA could potentially lead to a salary increase if you communicate this to your MD.

While currently serving as a PA, if you aspire to advance in your career, consider obtaining professional certifications to maximize your potential within the organization. Avoid making salary your sole motivation, as focusing solely on monetary gains may result in limited career progression. Your current dilemma indicates that you are not just concerned about salary but are also seeking personal and professional stability.

By setting clear goals and taking strategic steps, you can advance your career without jeopardizing the solid foundation you have worked hard to establish. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on planning for your future success and watch as your efforts pay off. Your unique skills and efficiency in your role set you apart, giving you the confidence to excel. Best of luck on your journey.

Hi Yuvraj,

First of all, don't think that the new people with an MBA degree are superior to you. They may have academic knowledge, but what you have is calculated in the long run, and that is your experience. Discuss your issue of salary with your boss (MD of your company). Start searching for another job. Simultaneously, you can also get your management degree (MBA) by studying in correspondence mode. All the best.

Hello Yuvaraj,

I have worked in three corporate companies, and now that I'm in a privately driven company in the Middle East which is not at all organized in anything, I felt dejected and turned off during my first days. However, now that I am positive about making this company into an organizational structure, though it's a challenge. I have taken on this challenge keeping my previous experience in mind and the advice I have received from industry experts.

Nevertheless, I am trying to tell you to be optimistic and positive. You don't have to worry much about how others, particularly the newcomers, look at you. It's a common phenomenon that the first batches get paid less, just because of the market value of those newcomers at that particular time.

You need to concentrate on your work and do your best to make your boss realize your value and how your experience matters at the end of the day more than the other individuals around.

Let me quote my first boss's words here: "The real value of a person to an institution is not based on what he has done in the past, but on what he is capable of."

Good luck Yuvi...

It doesn't matter what academic certificates you have; they are just the starting point. The value of experiences goes far beyond your certificates.

I myself am a college dropout, currently working as the Head of Marketing, and am on track to be promoted to a business analyst.

Don't worry, friend.

You are fortunate to have exposure to corporate activities as only a few people, despite investing a lot in education, get the opportunity to learn MIS reports.

Consider applying for an MBA correspondence course. There are many reputable MBA schools offering correspondence courses. Set a goal to successfully complete the course.

Having corporate exposure is distinct from pursuing education. Your true capabilities and talents will shine when you make efforts to bridge your corporate experience with your MBA education. Upon finishing the MBA program, you will be better equipped to steer your career in the right direction.

In the meantime, be patient, stay committed to your job, and keep learning. With knowledge and experience, you will attract good corporate job offers. Things will eventually improve.

Premlata Yadav and other friends are correct; you should talk to your MD, but not solely in comparison with MBA candidates, only for an increment in your salary. Apply elsewhere after obtaining a good opportunity, secure that job, and then apply for a correspondence MBA course.

Dear Playboy,

First, I suggest that this platform is meant for educators. Please do not use the name Playboy.

Secondly, an MBA is not a benchmark for achieving a high salary. Consider finding a new job or finding a way to lead others.

Thank you,
Arvind

Dear Yuvraj,

You have been working for the past 4 years, and you know much more about the way your company works than the newly joined MBAs. Don't let inferiority complex rule you. Don't think that you are lower than an MBA. They have a degree and a bit more theoretical knowledge than you, but you have practical knowledge about your company. Always remember that the company always wants to keep an employee who has a grip on their operations. So, don't worry about it.

Regarding your salary, as you have been a PA to your manager for 2.5 years, you may have a better communication with him. If not, start sharing. Then, you can explain to him the problems you are facing in a better way and ask for ways to improve your position or upgrade yourself in the organization. Managers are always ready to give suggestions; you just need to approach them in the right way.

One important thing you can do is to immediately upgrade your qualifications. Look for the best institute that offers an MBA through correspondence/evening classes on Saturdays and Sundays.

All the best. :icon1:

"If you want something you have never had before, do something you have never done before."

Regards,

Aditya Sharma

Hi, Yuvraj.

As most of the folks have already suggested all the good solutions to your problem, first of all, I would suggest you not to feel inferior in front of the new employees. Remember, getting Rs. 7500/- for an MBA graduate is a shame in itself. You have closer proximity to the highest authority person in the organization, and I assume that you must have a good relationship with your boss as you have been there for long, plus you have been working hard. Go straight to your boss and talk to him politely about the situation and how you feel. Don't get emotional but justify what you are saying and ask for guidance.

Meanwhile, keep looking for a better job. Sorry, I have no knowledge about openings on the Jammu side.

Hopefully, you have found the solution to your problem.

Nidhi

I understand your family problem, which can only be eradicated if you work somewhere else at a place where you and your work are recognized. My suggestion is to start searching for a job right away and show the same commitment there.

Dear Yuvraj, it's time for you to talk to your immediate boss, as it is the MD in your case. When he is in a good mood, ask for a few minutes to discuss with him your personal problems. Explain to him your problems: financial situation, family situation, your experience in the company, your achievements, etc. What problems you should discuss with your boss depend on how strong your personal relationship is with your MD. However, it is my advice not to make a direct comparison with your salary and the newly appointed MBA graduate's salary, as it might create a negative impact. Your success depends on how wisely you can explain your problems to your boss. Please don't get excited, emotional, or angry while discussing with your boss. Don't threaten him that you will resign if your salary is not hiked. After all, no company in the world is closed due to the resignation of an employee, and no employee is starving as he is sacked by a company. Look at the positive side of your job. Definitely, your boss will listen to you patiently and do the needful. In parallel, please keep trying for a better job. In case all your attempts fail to resolve your problems, don't hesitate to quit the job. Let's hope for the best.

Dear Mr. Yuvraj,

I have gone through your message and suggestions given by other members. I suggest you follow the suggestions of Ms. Supriya, Shikha, Geetha, and Neha. It is very simple to ask someone to resign and get a new job, but a lot of issues will come up for a married person particularly.

As you said, you completed your graduation after your father's demise. Unfortunately, in India, few industrialists are not given importance for long service; the new trend says "Young blood will have young ideas." They want to change people to accept their changing tendencies.

I suggest you come out of your place and upload your CV to a few well-known placement agencies that do not ask you to pay huge amounts to place you in a better company. Your problem seems to be that you do not want to leave "Jammu" as per your message. If you confine yourself to that area, you should adjust to the changing situations and face problems.

You should come out; you have worth, good language, and every company needs your service. You just need to challenge yourself. When you step out, your present boss will certainly realize your work ethic and attachment, and he may call you back.

Every one of us should know that "WORK IS NOT RELATED TO QUALIFICATION - IT IS BASED ON EFFICIENCY, HOW YOU RESPECT THE WORK AND PERFORM." A manager cannot work like a worker/clerk, but a worker/clerk who is upgraded to a manager's position can do wonders if given proper guidelines and training. For example, you can observe small companies where they do not like to change people.

Regards,
Nanduri VS Rao

Dear Playboy,

First of all, I would like to say that you shouldn't compare your salary with that of MBAs and postgraduates. I am working with an MNC, and for salary purposes and increments, your entry-level education is taken into account. It is observed whether, after joining the company, you have completed or passed various examinations. However, during the hiring process, you are interviewed based on your prior qualifications, not on your current status. If you possess good caliber and experience and feel that you are not being compensated accordingly, remember there is an open market where you can prove yourself.

With Good Luck,
Rakesh Kashyap

Why don't you apply in Delhi for PA jobs? The pay is very high here compared to what you are getting.

Dear Boss,

In this life, we all need something most desperately. I think you should be understanding of the needs of us workers who have given so much support, including sweat and service, to your company. I am sure you will guess what I mean and respond soon.

Yours sincerely,

Yuvraj

Wait, before you talk to your boss or MD, talk to your family first. I think your organization is arrogant, and they might terminate your services or make your life bitter there (if you ask for a raise). So the first step is to make sure your family is secure. Second, make sure that you have a backup plan in case your discussion with the MD backfires.

In case you are going to speak to the MD or boss, first do some roleplay exercises or practice with a friend or family member so you sound honest and assertive when you speak to the MD. Best of luck

First of all, Yuvraj, do not feel pathetic or confused, for this doesn't help the situation. Your success hinges on your personal strength and personal pride that you carry within yourself. Remember this: WHETHER YOU THINK YOU WILL WIN OR YOU THINK THAT YOU WILL LOSE, YOU ARE RIGHT. One of these two things will happen, so begin to think positively.

You have two choices in this matter: 1) You can stay in your current position and continue to move forward step by step, or 2) you can step forward with a new plan. Discuss this with family and see how things can be adjusted. If you remain "captive," this is due to choice.

While in your current position, continue to learn and gather insight. Broaden your wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. Use this experience as a foundation for greater things that will come in the future.

Hang in there; you are a person of value. You will do well.

Best wishes to you and many blessings upon your family.

Dr. Clark

PS 63:7

Dear Mr. Yuvraj,

You can directly discuss with the MD or HR regarding your concerns without any hesitation. But never compare others' salary, and you have to convince your management that you are performing your job to your superiors' satisfaction. This should yield some results. If they do not understand and appreciate, you may try elsewhere.

All the very best,
Ramanan K L V

Hi,

Don't be confused before considering all other options; you must discuss the salary issue with your boss. It's very easy for you since you are working on staff. I think this is not a serious issue for you considering your experience and knowledge.

Best of luck.

Dear, it's a simple thing that where an MBA is getting only 1000 Rs greater than what you are getting, then what would this company offer you better; approximately maybe a 500 Rs hike? Better search for some other organization. And while you leave, address the reason for leaving as this only. Take care and happy searching.

Hi Yuvraj,

The best approach is to first discuss this with your MD, as he is familiar with you and your work over the past 4 years. He will be able to provide a better decision. If you still feel the need to change your current job, then inform your MD that you are looking for a job change due to family or financial reasons before you secure another job. It is important to act in accordance with your own decision rather than others'.

Please let me know if you need any further assistance.

As I think, you have to figure out your expenses and projections for the coming five years. If you believe that based on your planning, your salary package is not adequate, then you may consider looking for another job. However, just a little confusion arises when someone else is getting a higher salary than you, but that should not be a problem.

Management needs to maintain their manpower status in the market, and to achieve that, they must hire more powerful and qualified human resources. It is not easy to switch jobs and settle into a new company because your current employer is familiar with your capabilities. However, when you move to a new company, you can simply showcase your qualifications and experience.

A worker skilled in building construction, with 15 years of experience, may not be eligible to apply for an architect position. Therefore, my friend, if you are not too old for further studies, please consider completing your desired studies.

Regards, Nagendra

It is not the time for confusion; it is the time to think why you are being paid less. Perhaps your level of education is a factor contributing to the lower pay, as mentioned in the previous response. Skills and knowledge could be reasons why others are paid more if they have superior skills. Therefore, focus on enhancing your skills and knowledge. If you are considering leaving your current job, remember that you have been at this job for quite a while, and the current market conditions might not be favorable. Reflect on what steps you need to take next. 😕😕😕😕

Dear Yuvraj,

Your problem is a general issue faced by many individuals in various organizations. They have dedicated more time to the company but possess lower qualifications. Furthermore, there are many individuals who criticize others for such things. Therefore, do not compare yourself to others. Additionally, do not leave your current job without securing another job first. You could consider enrolling in a part-time course with the organization's permission. Inform your managing director about your course admission so that he is aware of your situation without you having to explicitly state it.

I am confident that he will understand and possibly provide a good increment during the next review cycle.

Wishing you the best of luck.

Hi Yuvraj,

I would say yours is not a very rare or strange kind of situation. In today's scenario, companies have a very silent and neutral kind of stand on these things (salary raise/turning a blind eye towards any ongoing unfavorable situation until it's critical to their business). So be brave - this time will pass - I'm sure we all have been in similar situations and got through it. So, withstand it for a while.

AND do one thing - Find a very suitable time and approach it with a positive attitude - Discuss this with your boss. Bring forth the kind of job responsibilities you have and the salary you are drawing - ask for his OPINION AND GUIDANCE. Don't be too adventurous and use a demanding tone like "I want this" or "I am resigning" - nowadays, companies look for a cooperative attitude from employees so that they can issue an "Asked To Leave" notice citing your unfavorable attitude. I am sure your boss is not sadistic or a psychopath (YOU MUST BE A GOOD JUDGE OF WHAT KIND OF PERSON YOUR BOSS IS), so he should come up with a reasonable answer. Evaluate your position in the company accordingly.

PS - Keep searching for a new job and enroll in a course that enhances your skill set in a relevant way.

Best of Luck - everything will work out, yaar.

Shyamspace

Hi Yuvraj,

Rather than sticking to the organization you are presently working in, I think you should try your luck in another good organization as you have tremendous experience and exposure. All the best.

Your MD knows your salary very well as he will have the budgets for hiring. It's not worth working for a company where you have to ask for a hike or raise in salary. Can't they acknowledge your performance?

It's no use working for this organization. Get another job, and when leaving, don't forget to give your feedback to HR and your MD. Move on...

Regards,
Maya

Dear Friend,

As you mentioned that you are the PA of your director, you can directly share your problem with him. I believe that if you discuss your concerns with your director, he will consider them and may increase your salary accordingly.