How should I ask for an increase in salary at work?

Question

At work today, I saw (by accident) a new hire's salary level and the new guy is getting paid more than me!

While we have different backgrounds, we both have arguably the same related experience for the job! When you consider other experience, I trash this guy. In addition, he's 1 year out of college...I'm about 5 years out and am working on my MBA (he is not).

I was a part of the team that interviewed him and gave my ok to hire him. He is not a friend of anyone at the company. . so what gives with this situation?

I've only been on the job 2 months. So how and when do I bring up the subject to the boss?

Thanks.

Answer 1

First of all, your reason for asking for a raise has nothing to do with the new hire. You need to make a list of your accomplishments with the company, and you also need to list what you do above and beyond your job title. Since you have only been on the job 2 months, you should probably wait until you've been employed at least a total of six months... you certainly will have the opportunity to document your work and how you have contributed to the company. As for as the new hire making more, NEVER bring it up... you shouldn't have been privy to that information; secondly, perhaps the reason he's earning more is that he impressed them in his interview and your employer is expecting more of him. Keep in mind he may not meet their expectations and could be fired in a month or so for lack of performance. As for you, focus on your work and documenting your successes... do not be bitter about making less salary right now... it's a marathon, not a race, and you could be earning much more in a year or so.

Answer 2

If you have been working for the company only two months, you yourself are a new guy. The both of you are on the same platform when it comes to seniority. Other than that, the reason why he's getting paid more is that he can offer something no one else can, not even you.

Asking for a raise after two months is too soon unless you have some leverage. Is there another company willing to hire you for a higher salary? If this is the case, then the company your work for has a reason to pay you more if you are in demand.

When you are ready, I would schedule a meeting with your boss and ask for a raise. Do not be meek. Be able to support your reasons with pinpoint examples other than "I have more years out of college then him." That is whining. Years mean nothing if you are not able to do the work.

I would suggest finding another job which will pay you higher, then giving your company a choice on whether to keep you by matching the offer, or letting you go and you going to the other job. Yeah, it's hard work, and risky, but this is what you must do to get a higher salary.

Answer 3

This could be a tricky, sticky, situation. For you.
Don't assume that this new hire knows no one. Are you positively sure he's got the same background as you? You need to consider this: why weren't you put into the position he is in? If you have a good rappor with your boss I would say something. Just watch the way you say it. Be neutral, DON'T put any emotion into it at all!!!! Us women tend to do that. We can't help it. Watch what you say. Timing is crucial here too. Let your boss know ahead of time that you need about 15 minutes of his or her time. Don't pounce or you'll get bit. When you finally sit down and express your concern, be concise...short and sweet. Make sure that you haven't called out too much or anything like that. Be forewarned, if there's anything a boss can cock block you with, they will. So make sure you've got a legit excuse for any time missed and things like that. But say SOMETHING!!!!

Answer 4

First don't ask after 2 months, wait at least three. When the boss isn't busy and you have the time, pull him aside and bring up your educational history and show that you deserve a raise because of your qualifications.

Either that, or start looking around for a different job that will pay more. If you find one, tell your boss you have found another employer who will pay more than he is at the moment. Ask him if he will reconsider his current payment to match that of your new offer.

Answer 5

Word of advise, dont bring it up...great way to get let go due to the fact that you are under 3 months with your position.

I would wait until your review, establish with your boss all that you have accomplished for your position and try to get an increase.

Answer 6

How: You do not.
When: Never.