Dear Dr. Mimi: Feeling Underpaid

, , , ,

Dear Dr. Mimi:

When can I expect to get a raise? This is my first real job, and I have been here just over a year, and no one has said anything about my salary. Would it be improper to ask for a raise? I like my job but could use the extra money. —Underpaid

Dear Underpaid:

Before you ask for a raise, ask for a performance review. Raises should not necessarily be tied to length of service but should be linked to quality of performance. If you get a good performance review, then you can ask for a salary review. This is a nicer way of asking. If you truly feel you are underpaid, consider looking for employment elsewhere.

Dr. Mimi

Written By

drmimi

Leave a Reply

  • Dear Dr. Mimi – Frustrated

    Dear Dr. Mimi, I trained a new employee about a month ago, but they still don’t seem to be getting it. They mess up almost every task I give them. What can I do to fix this? Should I just fire them? —Frustrated Dear Frustrated, It can be tricky working with new employees. If you…

  • Dear Dr. Mimi – Overwhelmed

    Dear Dr. Mimi, My spouse and I now both work full-time jobs and have a three-year-old. I had been home full-time while my spouse worked. Our son is in day care and seems to love it, but I am unsure how to balance having a family, being an employee, and doing well in both jobs.…

  • Monitoring Productivity

    It may be daunting to look at your schedule for the coming months. Here are a few tips to help you stay on task and monitor your productivity: Clarify the vision. What do you hope to achieve? How will you accomplish this? Get specific! Define the milestones you aim to reach. Sit down and devote…