Need a raise!!!

Question

I work in children's publishing and this industry notoriously underpays their employees.  All of my colleagues and I make close to the same and it's barely a living wage.  We all LOVE what we do, but honestly, I can't afford to pay back my student loans and I can barely pay my rent.  All of us are thinking about collectively going to management and asking for a raise, because individually in our performance reviews, no one has received even a cost of living raise in the last 3 years.  I don't want this to seem like a protest, but we just don't know how else to get through.  Any ideas how to get them to listen and give us all a raise?

Kristan Anderson · Answer

Is there a way for a spokesperson to sit with a manager in a non-confrontational way to discuss the issues? I would make an effort to communicate the issue of wages and how it is not livable. Then, give manage a chance to make an effort. If they feel attacked, it would not go well and I do not feel they will listen.

Lady Pele · Answer

I agree with needing to know the reason behind the lack of cost of living increases.  Are they not making a profit or too little to justify increases?

While you may love your job, if you can't survive on it, then perhaps it's time to see how you could transfer your skills to another profession.

Six Figure Salary Coach · Answer

I would be leery about doing a joint request for an increase. I don't know how well that would be received by management.  Regardless of how it is conducted, I feel like it will be seen by management as a protest.  How many people are we talking about here?

I have some tips on how to ask for a raise if it's something you are interested in. I coach and train women on how to ask for a raise. I have a ton of free resources too. You each can follow this approach but I don't think that you should do a group request. My spidey sense are screaming no.

I suspect you want to do this as a group so that everyone is treated equally. I would suggest each of you building your own business case (addressed in some of my free training) to prove your individual value.

If you want more details I am happy to help further.

GOOD LUCK! I get the frustration! I am excited that you are in a place to start taking control!

Anonymous · Answer

There are 8 of us, all in the same job title and being paid the same, and we have all asked for raises individually and been turned down, even for a basic 3% cost of living adjustment.  I hear what you are saying; I think we are all just so frustrated that we thought our voices would be louder together, and we do want everyone to be treated equally.  Thank you for the resources - I will take a look and talk to the team and encourage them to do this on their own!

Need a raise!!!

You're invited.

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