The art of requesting fair compensation: A guide to doing it with poise and assertiveness

Some employees may feel that they are not being paid fairly, even though they may be exceeding expectations or taking on additional responsibilities. This could be due to inflation raising the cost of living or simply because they are making less than their colleagues who perform the same job.

If you suspect you're being compensated less than your peers, it's crucial to speak up for yourself. This conversation may differ from one where you request a raise.

"Gorick Ng, a Harvard University career advisor and creator of the "How To Say It" flashcard series for professional communication, explains that requesting a raise is equivalent to requesting more money because you have been contributing more to the company compared to others at the same level. On the other hand, asking for parity means requesting more money because you have been offered less by the company compared to others at the same level."

Women and certain minority groups are often paid less than men, with women earning 84 cents for every dollar earned by a man, according to a National Women's Law Center analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data.

If you feel that you are not being compensated fairly, here's how to make a case for equal pay.

'Ensuring that I am receiving the correct payment amount is important to me.'

To demonstrate parity with your boss, you'll need evidence that the company is not compensating you fairly.

Vicki Salemi, a career expert at Monster, suggests discussing salaries with colleagues in a confidential manner to ensure equitable pay. She proposes sharing salaries with one another to ensure fairness.

Can you provide me with some information about the internal pay structure at your company?

'It would mean a lot to me to have your support'

After gathering your data, schedule a meeting with your manager and begin by expressing your enthusiasm for working with them and their team, and your eagerness to share the numerous initiatives you have planned.

One worker raised an issue with their boss using the language described in Ng's book.

You are performing the same duties as your colleagues, but you are not being paid as much as they are.

I'm not confrontational, I'm calm and confident.

If your boss and company are hesitant to compensate you fairly, consider working for organizations that advocate for pay parity, says Salemi.

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