We live in a capitalist world, and there is no way to overlook that. However, that doesn’t mean we should start accepting less money than our worth. Not only is that exploitation, but it’s also a disservice to yourself and the skills you have learned over the years.
Most people spend their lives working at jobs that don’t pay them well. Sadly, they remain content with their conditions. However, if you have finally decided to break away from your underpaid job, you might need to do some research. So, how do you figure out if you are underpaid in your job? That’s what we’re here for!
7 Signs You Are Undervalued At Your Job
The signs below will tell you whether you’re underpaid. So, have a look and then determine if it’s time to start looking for a new job.
1. Online Statistics Show It
There are countless salary comparison tools available on the internet that you can use to determine whether you are being underpaid and thus undervalued. Take PayScale, for instance. This site lets you conduct a salary comparison based on various metrics such as company, job title, degree, certification, skill, industry. It is a powerful tool that you can use to get started.
2. You Have More Duties Than Your Job Description Explains
If you have more duties than what your job description states, it is safe to say that you’re undervalued. Why? Your supervisors are aware that you work hard, which gives them the green light to assign more work to you. As someone willing to prove their mettle, you’ll work harder. However, your compensation might not change at all.
3. Your Colleagues Are Making More
Imagine one day, a colleague randomly tells you how much they are making. Although they don’t know what you’re making, that revelation could prove that you’re underpaid. Some people may use this as leverage and strike a deal with their employers to level the playing field. However, many don’t have the resources or courage to do that.
If you’re worried about being undervalued, we wouldn’t advise asking your colleagues right away. People are always hesitant to talk about their salaries and for good reasons. If they do reveal it themselves and you feel slighted, there is a good chance you think your value is not being recognised.
4. Your Salary Hasn’t Changed In Years
If you’ve crossed your probation period and your salary has remained the same, you might want to reconsider a few things. Your salary is normally reassessed after the probation period ends. If the company is pleased with your performance, it should increase. The tenure for probation periods varies from company to company.
Your performance reviews determine whether you’re getting a raise or not. If you’re in a situation where even good performance reviews have not done anything, you are underpaid.
5. You Are Explicitly Told So
There are times when you are explicitly told that you are not valued as much as you should be. Companies may say that they just don’t have the resources to pay you what you should be getting, and you’re left feeling helpless. In this situation, try to negotiate with HR and see if you can work out a mutually beneficial plan.
6. Newer Hires Are Getting Paid More Than You
This makes the question of whether you’re undervalued crystal clear. If you notice that new hires are getting paid more than you are, it is a sign that you should re-evaluate.
However, be sure to look at what positions they are filling. If they are being hired for the same position as you and paid more, there may be unfair treatment at play. However, if they’re being hired for positions higher on the food chain, it makes sense that their salary may be higher.
7. Your Company Has A High Sales Turnover
It’s fun to work with companies that have a reasonable sales turnover rate and are thriving. You feel good about the work you are doing, and you share in the companies success. However, if your company is still not rewarding you with bonuses or an increased salary despite the high sales turnover, it’s an excellent chance to speak up about being undervalued.
Final Words
Being undervalued in your role isn’t something anyone wants. As humans, we strive to better ourselves at every stage of our lives. However, not being appreciated for this progression can undermine your work efficiency and stall motivation.
Most of the top companies in the world focus on taking care of their employees by giving them raises, but a few black sheep still roam free. Your job is to be aware of when you are being exploited, so you can negotiate a better deal or start looking elsewhere!
Are you an engineer in the building service industry worried about being underpaid? Download our Salary Survey to assess where you stand.
Author:
Mohammed Adris is a co-owner & director at Responsum Global. He has over 8 years’ experience matching the top building services engineering talent with the best employers. He has over 50 written success stories. He’s active on LinkedIn, is a host on The Building Services Podcast, and a regular writer on The Building Services Blog. He’s a dad of 2 & a petrol head.
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