Are Salaries Being Depressed by COVID-19?

Question

I interviewed with a major Boston-area organization that is usually highly competitive on salary.  I was surprised to learn that the position won't even reach the mid-line of the $30,000 salary range spread.  Is anyone else finding that salaries are being depressed by COVID-19?  Are you still striving to negotiate salary?

Jackie Ghedine · Answer

Always negotiate your salary, regardless if we are in the midst of COVID.  Here's the thing organizations are going to realize and quick, they can lowball and play hardball with salaries because they believe they have the upper hand with candidates (and they may for a little while longer) but the economy is going to come roaring back and the talent they mistreated will flee.

Always confidently negotiate your worth and clearly articulate the benefit to the company by bringing you on board. You've got this!

Nancy Gregory · Answer

It's not a 30,000 salary, it's a $30,000 spread between the lowest and highest salary in the range.  Position required at least 7 years of related experience.

Debbie Johnsen · Answer

It is the perfect time for companies to try to low ball incoming employees. The problem is, it's harder to get to the next salary grade if you start off low. Try to negotiate up now, if you can. Or, if it's possible, take a pass and get into a company who is honoring early 2020, market level salaries. Good Luck!

Kim Callinan · Answer

I don’t know what is happening across the board; however, we are offering the same salaries.

Brenda Steel Marshall · Answer

I have noticed the same thing with some of my recent job applications.  It's frustrating to find that your skills are being devalued by companies because they are trying to cut corners.  I understand that the economy is tough for everyone, but I need a job that will still cover my bills.

Anonymous · Answer

In general, places that are hiring seem to be offering their traditional salaries to new hires. That said a $30k salary would depend on the job - Is it entry level or low-ranking for the company? Is it a non-profit? Is it a base salary where commission or bonuses comes into play? In all 3 of those situations in Boston, I would expect that kind of salary.

Anonymous · Answer

I could easily see a businesses trying to pay the lowest amount possible regardless of their balance sheet or most requirements now that market rate wages are required of all business types by either City, state, or federal requirements. This takes into account the local cost of living, the education and job requirements and this is all meant to dissuade discrimination in hiring whether based on age, gender, ethnicity, etc.

Are Salaries Being Depressed by COVID-19?

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