Would it be presumptuous to apply for a higher paid position when I've only been with the company for a year and a half?

Anonymous

July 21,2022 at 4:16PM UTC

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Would it be presumptuous to apply for a higher paid position when I've only been with the company for a year and a half?

I'm an administrative assistant (associate level) and an administrative assistant (intermediate level) position has opened up. I started working in my position in February of 2021.

The job duties are the same - but I think the position is an acknowledgement of work performance.

There are 8 others who are admins, some of them are intermediates already. Three of us started within the past two years. The position has also been posted externally.

I've been told there are a limited number of intermediate positions available - and that usually you have to transfer to another department to get promoted (I love my department and hate to hear this).

I am very diligent in my work and I truly do love my job. I tend to do more than my share but almost always under the radar. I am not good at self-promoting but my supervisor has offered me praise.

I was discouraged to hear from an employee who said she only got promoted to intermediate recently (and she's nearing retirement) and it sounds like her pay rate increases necessitated the promotion (but I feel she does deserve the recognition!).

I do have 20 years of administrative experience and was able to negotiate a higher starting rate when I was hired. I currently make less than the median salary for this position I'd be applying for (by $2.29 per hour).

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AnonymousJuly 21,2022 at 5:17PM UTC
If you make under the midpoint, I would go ahead and apply. It's smart of you to recognize that the midpoint is likely the max budget and use that for comparison purposes. I recently had a job posted that would have been a lateral move for several people and every single one of them already made above midpoint. I had to explain that to them and this was not entry level.
As for someone who just recently made it to the next level, there are lots of reasons that kind of thing happens. Not everyone is motivated, educated, eager, whatever. People who remain in low-level positions throughout a career with a single employer are there for a reason. Their reasons don't/shouldn't impact your own choices. Worst case is that you don't get picked for the job.
Good luck!
Elizabeth White-PetersJuly 21,2022 at 5:49PM UTC
You are right. The only way to get BIG raises is to move. Rarely will mid-point jump to mid-point in the same company. You have to be the CEO of your own career. Be forewarned though, depending on your company culture, applying to a different role can prevent your future success in your current role IF you don't get the transfer/promotion. On the other hand, some employers recognize the need to step-up their retention and a conversation with your current Exec could result in a career growth plan. TOO many factors to recommend your next steps - just recognize your choices. & good luck. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJuly 21,2022 at 6:21PM UTC
I don't know why you'd think it presumptuous to apply for a higher level position after a year and a half with the company. Most companies only require you to be in your role for 6 months or a year before you can apply for another.
With 20 years experience, you're certainly qualified for an intermediate level position, if not a senior level position. Unless you want to get stuck at the associate level like your co-worker, I'd apply to any and all positions you're interested in if you don't get this one.
GOOD LUCK!!!!
Kristie WhiteJuly 21,2022 at 6:24PM UTC
You are right on time.
Crystal HowellJuly 21,2022 at 7:48PM UTC
Always apply, if your employee handbook says how long you have before you can apply and you are past that time, do it!
It shows management that you are ready for more responsibility and know what you want! All they can say is not yet, if they do, ask what needs to be done.
AnonymousJuly 21,2022 at 9:41PM UTC
I agree with Crystal! Put yourself out there, let them know why you are ready for the position and the worst they can do is say no. It may also lead to feedback, such as a GAPs analysis, that would provide you with the necessary information to get to the next level. Good luck!
AnonymousJuly 22,2022 at 12:28AM UTC
The answer is always no until you ask, so apply
Tomilyn RichardsJuly 22,2022 at 1:44PM UTC
YES APPLY!!!! You should always raise your hand when you want opportunities to grow and be seen... =)