What to do when you get a raise and your co-workers do not?

Question

My boss came to me and told me that I was to get a raise and several other of my co-workers were going to as well. My co workers would ask me about any raises coming up and I told them what my boss had said. Turns out I am the only one who got the raise. I know I messed up by running my mouth. But what should I do now?

Answer 1

You're right, you should have said something to the effect of "I haven't heard anything".

Keep in mind, however, that it's not your fault they didn't get the raise you did. It's quite possible they were not as deserving. The fact that you got a raise and they didn't is not your problem. That is for them to take up with the boss.

If your boss confronts you about co-workers whining to him/her about not getting a raise, own up to letting it slip when they asked you. If your company has a policy about telling other's what you make, it should also pertain to them asking you. Two wrongs don't necessarily make a right, but you shouldn't get in too much trouble over it.

For now, just ride the wave of angry/jealous coworkers for now, until something new comes up to talk about, which will probably sooner than later.

Answer 2

Do your co-workers know you got the raise? If not simply tell them that you are sorry, you misinterpreted the information, and no salary increases are immediately due or in the works. If they already know you have been given the increase, there really isn't too much you can do, except say the same thing or something similar. Perhaps the raise is because of seniority, or your job description has had added responsibilities...... You have found out the hard way that salaries/paychecks are very personnel and private information unless you work in a place like the government where your job title/classification information is common knowledge, and payments due for that position. (Union hand book). Good Luck.

Answer 3

Your boss should have been straight with you. You were conveying information you thought was correct. In the future the thing to not talk about is salary. It is no one's business but yours. If someone wants to know if they are getting a raise, they should talk to the boss. You could convey to your boss that you said these things...but best to just leave it alone. This all really depends on the size of your organization. Finally if your boss is talking to you about co-workers make sure to ask if this information is public...lets you know if it is communicatable or not.

Answer 4

If your co-workers ask you again, suggest they go directly to the boss. Never discuss salaries, raises, anything like that with co-workers.

Answer 5

You have learned a good lesson. Don't discuss pay and raises with co workers. I would never mention it again. This kind of thing is personal and that is what I would say if asked.

Answer 6

Tell them that you misunderstood what your boss said and apologize to them for repeating incorrect information.

In a way, you did misunderstand his message if only you are getting a raise. Then develop a "dab nabbit" attitude that no one is getting a raise so they don't pick up on the fact that you did.

Good luck. At least you understand what you did wrong so that you won't repeat the mistake. That's always a good thing!

Answer 7

Yes, you have learned the "never discuss salary" lesson, albeit a bit too late. Now that you've gotten your gains, put that lesson into use - don't discuss your salary or anyone else's. If you get hit up, say something like, "Since raises didn't come through yet, I've decided I need to change my ways and not discuss pay any more." They don't need to know you are talking about THEIR raises not coming through.

Answer 8

Nothing. The damage is already done. I wouldn't dwell on it because that would only serve to remind your co-workers that they didn't get a raise. For the future, however, I would never talk about money or show my paystub.

Answer 9

Sadly i dont think there is much you can do. It depends how friendly you are with your co-workers. Wil they understand if you try to explain? Either or, you are getting a raise because YOU have earnt it. You owe no one else anything. Well done on some good work!

Answer 10

Tell them to ask the boss about their raises. Youre not responsible for their money! Obviously youre doing the job they arent.