ajcjobs > BlogBreak > Archives > 2007 > August > 17
Friday, August 17, 2007
Calculate your professional value!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The average salary in the U.S. is $36,764; check on the approximate salary for your position and how you compare. Now obviously the salary for positions is based on a number of things, but it is important to conduct competitive intelligence when it comes to your pay. If you don’t keep an eye on how you stack up you may find yourself grossly underpaid.
Stay competitive Where do you begin in determining a fair salary for your position? You can determine the approximate value for your position by utilizing information that you can easily find online at the United States Census Bureau or through a company such as Salary.com. This information should give you a good start to understanding your value to an employer.
Be smart If you find you are not making what you should, discuss this in your next review. Consider discussing your compensation more in depth. If it means you need to make a change, start looking around for other positions while you are employed. You immediately forfeit your negotiation power when you are not employed. Start researching the type of company you want to work for, the position you would like and the direction of your industry - the future.
So be aware of the average salary in your field. Remember to conduct continuous research on the salary of similar positions. If you determine you are undervalued, get your resume ready for a potential change. Then if necessary, take the next step and start interviewing. The main goal is: Make what you are worth!!
