Dear Savvy,
With the economy the way it is, what's the average pay cut people are being forced to take after their position is eliminated and they need a job? And what is the best way to handle an employer asking what salary you are looking for in this kind of economy?
See my answer when you read more.
There aren't any statistics showing how much less workers are making now that unemployment has been on the upswing for some time, but it's clear that workers are making less in general. Some experts have even advised that an employee should take a voluntary pay cut if she's about to be given an official pink slip. The logic behind that idea is that the job market is so tough you'll have to take a pay cut anyway, and once things turn around you'll be a prime candidate for a raise.
Young workers are being hit by the downturn because more experienced out-of-work candidates are taking the jobs normally filled by young job hunters. Because most companies are running with leaner workforces, meaning less jobs are available, and the candidate pool is overflowing, taking a pay cut from your old paycheck might be necessary to be competitive.
Your answer to employers asking for salary requirements should be similar to what you would have said in a stronger economy. As I've mentioned before, there are a couple of ways to approach the salary question. You could respond by saying something along the lines of, "my salary is negotiable considering other benefits and what your firm thinks is a reasonable start," or mention a salary range that leaves plenty of room for negotiation. Know what you are worth going in to the conversation, but keep in mind that a little flexibility will get you a long way in this economy.
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Melrose
Marni
I haven't had a raise in two years but the company I work for is growing, very small, and in addition to moving up the latter to a directorial position, I am rewarded in other ways - bonuses from clients, and this year my employer surprised me with about two grand to build myself a new computer as I wanted it. She feels badly but I really don't, and I have told her that my commitment to the job isn't contingent upon a raise, and as we grow the business, I feel confident that when we can have them, we will.
I have worked for her for 3 years now and enjoy a level of job security and flexibility that no raise could equal, as you say, its about "flexibility" and we both give that to each other - its immeasurably important, especially in small businesses where getting through the rough patches really means a team effort.
1*ladder
(needs more coffee..goes and gets it.)
2i've been stressing about this one since i know that i deserve a raise and should get one but in a time when there are so many layoffs it's just hard to break the ice on the topic. i've managed to lay out my case the same way that i would have when things were good - and i know that it'll be the best way to go about things. if you're afraid to speak up now, then what's to say that when things get better you won't be held back because you didn't take the risk.
3My dad always told me, in regard to jobs/raises/changing positions etc, "always do what's best for you because that's what the company is always going to do," which seems to be especially true in this economy.
4I have been in my post of Employability Manager with the Local Authority for over 6 years.In that time I have never had my salary reviewed. I am being paid well below others who are doing the same job or carrying out similar work. This aside I have developed the service and taken on a wide range of additional duties and responsibilities. Can you advise me what to do? I have already raised this matter with senior staff without any satisfaction.
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