Q & A Table of Contents
Can I Ask For A Raise That Exceeds What My Subordinates Make?
From: Mario, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Question: After having been offered a promotion in another department, I found out some of the people I will be supervising there earn more than I have been offered for the promotion. I don't mind as the salary proposal seems fair but some people have told me it is irregular to earn less than a subordinate. Is this true?
If it is, how should I approach management on these issues?
Response: Your credibility with your subordinates could suffer if they learn you are paid less than they are. Moreover, your credibility with your employer is very much at risk if your employer has reason to conclude you value yourself less than your subordinates.
The simplest approach is also likely to be the most effective. There is nothing wrong with asking your employer how much the subordinates are being paid and then asking him/her to let you know their rationalization for having offered you a lower salary. If they have other things to offer you: a guaranteed bonus, a salary increase after three months on the job, stock in the company, deferred compensation (additional pay you will definitely receive in the future) -- that's good to know.
Failing to ask them this sort of question is a serious mistake. If another party proposes something that is contrary to your interests, if you accept it, you are inviting them to continue to take unfair advantage of you.
If the employer persists in offering you the lower salary, ask them "Why do you think it would be in my interest to accept this proposal?" Ask open-ended questions, ones that don't allow for a simple 'yes' or 'no' answer. That will help you derive information you can use to create your responses or develop your counter-proposals.
You should always ask questions. There is no such thing as a dumb question . . . however there can be dumb answers.
Good luck,
Steve
| 
