Colleague doing same job has double my pay..

[sentinelstrike]

Hi,

I've come to believe that one of my colleagues who does exactly the same job as me, earns almost double what I earn, they have been with the company for 20 years, I've been there for 5. I would expect someone who has been with the company for this length of time but not to earn almost double. Or maybe this is the norm...

I have more qualifications than them and often have to assist them with their work...

My question is how do I approach this with my employer? Should I even bother? I enjoy the job and the working environment so don't want to rush for the door.

Any advice appreciated!

 

[sentinelstrike]

If I did approach the company about a rise

I'd make sure I was completely sure, then I'd raise it as a grievance stating my case very calmly. Can't imagine for a second that you'll get parity but might see a nice raise.

I'm more than sure it is true, I'm not expecting parity as you generally expect someone who's been there 20 years to get a bit more!

 

[sentinelstrike]

If your manager is a good one they might give you a raise but certainly not to the level of your colleague. This is the only real way to secure a big increase. Are you being paid market rate for what you do?

From looking online recently, I could secure a decent raise by moving as the market rate does seem to have increased. At this time I am surprised there is such a HUGE difference between me and my colleague.

 

[sentinelstrike]

Thanks all, I have a pretty good relationship with the company, so I'll probably bring it up with them. If I can't get what I want from them (I'm not expecting parity). I know that I'll need to move on.

 

[sentinelstrike]

sounds fair, in 15 years you will likely be paid the same as he is now whats the issue?

I would expect someone with longer to service to be paid slightly more, I have issue with the difference being so huge! I often have to help this colleague with thier own work and often get none of the credit! They seem to do the bare minimum and I work my A** off!

This person also has no valid certs whereas I'm being pushed to take more exams!

 

[sentinelstrike]

Simple then, without mentioning the other persons salary, approach your boss, say based on the market rate you feel you aren't being paid enough for your role, given your qualifications, and that you are having to dedicate your time to managing / helping the other person and feel you arent being compensated correctly for the role and you feel it should be closer to X figure.

I would never mention that I know anyone else's salary, it just gives me an idea of what my salary could become, how high to aim is my next decision.

Huge range of answers on this thread!