Dear George,
Octavious has raised a valid question and has put his thoughts in an excellent way. Please reflect on what he has said without getting emotional. In order to help you to think for yourself, I will give you some pointers. The best way to seek help is to put your ideas and then ask whether you are on the right lines, preferably by sending a private message.
Think about various types of small organisations, as your response would be different based on the organisation (for example, if it is a call centre where all the workers are essentially doing the same job) or if it is small nusing home comprising of various types and grades of workers. Put yourself in their positions and reflect on what type of remuneration package would be ideal for that grade and what your reaction would be.
Have a lovley day.
Simhan
Learning and Teaching Fellow (Retd)
The University of Bolton, UK