Because you need to find out the minimum, maximum, and mid-point that companies in your market pay for particular jobs. With multiple sources to compare, you can get that information. Don't exclude hospitals, universities, and social service agencies in your data. Ditto local, state, and federal government agencies. The more comprehensive your survey, the more convincing your argument that you are being paid under market, one of the strongest arguments you can make for an increase.
Raises go through an entirely different internal process than adjustments.
You may be able to convince your boss to adjust your salary by transferring funds from one budget item to the salary line item without involving HR, the compensation committee, or any other part of the bureaucracy. An adjustment is always the quickest way to fatten your checking account. Copyright 1999 Nichols College. All rights reserved.