Feeling Underpaid? Let's Debunk Salary Raise Myths Together and Find Clarity

Many times, a lot of employees get demotivated because they feel that they are getting paid less than what they deserve but are afraid to ask for a raise in salary. There are many myths associated with salary negotiation after joining a company. This simple presentation is an attempt to dissect those myths and gain clarity on whether asking for a raise in salary is justified.

Regards.

The Best Time to Negotiate Salary

The best time to negotiate for salary is when the employer makes you an offer after you have demonstrated your worth fully up to the employer's expectations. Additionally, the employer acknowledges that you are the likely suitable candidate.

Having an untimely salary discussion may lead the employer to think that you are considering seeking higher pay or other opportunities. It is essential for everyone to be aware that "Salary" should be viewed in terms of the employment being offered.

Sure, when an employer makes you an offer, it is definitely a time to negotiate for salary—not negotiate for a raise in salary. It is logical to think that a discussion on a raise in salary will be done with tact, at the appropriate time, and with enough justification for the same.

Though I have not really understood what you mean by the statement that "salary" should be viewed in terms of employment offered—I think that just as the terms and nuances of the employment change over time, so should the compensation associated with it. And if one thinks that that is not happening, then there is nothing wrong in raising the issue!

It is true that I have not really mentioned how the issues related to the myths can be resolved. It was done on purpose. When the solution is not there, one tends to think about it. But now that you have brought it up, let us take the myth that says: "The best way to get a raise in salary is to list the reasons why I need more money."

This is not going to help. The reason is that this logic will be applicable to each and every employee of the company. After all, with the increase in the cost of living, everyone's expenses would have gone up. So if the company were to raise your salary because your expenses have gone up, then they'll have to do the same for everyone.

Therefore, the justification for asking for a raise in salary would have to be the other way around - about the company and not about you.

So instead of saying why you need more money, you'll have to show why you deserve more money. The rationale should be employer-centered. Show them the value that you bring to the table. Let your performance speak for you. That will help you get more money.

Of course, after you've given very good professional reasons why you deserve a raise in salary based on your contribution and performance, you could consider using emotional appeals to get what you want!

I would be happy if other readers also came forward and contributed their thoughts on this ticklish issue of asking for a raise in salary after they have joined a company. Under what circumstances is this justified, and how should one go about it?

Well, it fits fine in my situation, but my boss told me that after 4 months, they will be posting me to another location. Currently, I am in Delhi, which is my hometown. Should I ask for a raise in case of transfer? Here, I am getting 10k per month, and I am managing the whole of North India as an admin.

Well, it fits fine in my situation. However, my boss told me that after 4 months they will be posting me to another location. Currently, I am in Delhi, which is my hometown. Should I ask for a raise in case of transfer? Here, I am earning 10k per month and handling the administration for the whole of North India.

Considerations for Asking a Raise

Of course, you should ask for a raise for relocating allowances and settling benefits like allowances specific to the city you are being shifted to. You may also want to check your company policies for employees (documented in the handbook) to claim allowances.

It is true that a gradual raise in salary is beneficial for the employer because it doesn't allow the employee to develop negative feelings towards the company. Salaries depend on various factors, such as the company's growth rate and the employees' willingness to work beyond regular hours. A good company must handle salary matters very carefully.

Thank you.

As an HR professional practicing in a senior capacity, I have risen to the position of GM in my last assignment over a period of time. I have also handled performance appraisals, salary increases, demotions, promotions, and out-of-turn promotions for a large number of employees in different locations.

Salary Discussions: A Holistic Approach

In my view, salary should never be the subject of discussion, debate, or issues for employees if systems and procedures are in place with a clear HR mandate and policy in the organization. One should approach this subject with an overall perspective of the organization and its human resources in comparison to market situations. In short, HR should be nimble enough to proactively or reactively assess salary and related issues.

Regards,
V. Rangarajan