Q&A

Why did I not get a pay rise in five years?

Why did I not get a pay rise in five years?

I work long hours for a family firm and although I love my job I feel increasingly undervalued and taken for granted Reader works 10 hours a day, but has not received a pay rise in five years. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: Alamy

Why was my job offer revoked before I started?

Just a few days before my start date, I was notified that my offer had to be revoked because there were changes in the department. I was supposed to be replacing a woman present at my interview who was getting a promotion.

Is it hard to find a job after being out for a long time?

Being a fabulous person is often more important than being skilled in a particular area. Yes, job hunting is hard. No, career experts aren’t lying when we say you can find a job. You can. And we’re here to help. Our jobs depend on it.

What happens when job offer is rescinded prior to start?

The offer was rescinded prior to start, a de facto layoff. My offers have always been been phone calls confirmed by a letter sent as an email attachments (i.e. word documents or PDFs on the company’s electronic letterhead) stating the salary, start date, etc…

I work long hours for a family firm and although I love my job I feel increasingly undervalued and taken for granted Reader works 10 hours a day, but has not received a pay rise in five years. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: Alamy

What happens when you leave a job after 6 months?

Saying goodbye to your coworkers is an important part of a job resignation, even if you’ve only been with the company for six months. It may also be helpful to stay connected to office friends and professional connections later on.

Why is my new job not what I expected?

Your new boss could be having an off week, or the HR department might’ve dropped the ball on coordinating your orientation. While a temporarily distracted manager or a disorganized recruiter aren’t ideal, these challenges are surmountable.

Why do qualified job applicants get rejected every day?

We cannot blame them for worrying. Of course they worry, and they are likely to keep worrying until they find a new position! Qualifications are only part of the job-search puzzle. Qualified job-seekers get rejected from recruiting pipelines every day!

How often do I ask for a pay rise?

Every year on the anniversary of my joining I ask for a rise and am told the firm cannot afford it (I know that is not true, as I see the books, and also, the family members live lavishly). I have twice been given a £1,000 bonus, but apart from that I am earning exactly what I started on five years ago as just an administrator.

What should you never say when asking for a raise?

Never, ever, ever compare yourself to another co-worker. First of all, it makes you look like a busybody and gossip hound for finding out a co-worker’s salary. It’s very possible Sally has more education than you, was a better negotiator during the interview process, or has proven herself more than you have.

When to walk in for a pay raise?

If your company is enjoying fat profit margins, record-breaking sales numbers, and unprecedented expansion then by all means — walk in there and ask for a pay raise. Things are obviously coming up roses and you need to strike while the iron is hot.