Jobs

20 Signs You’re Being Underpaid by Your Employer

From online salary comparisons to internal salary disparities, these telltale signs will empower you to assess whether you’re receiving fair compensation for your contributions.

Low Experience, High Pay

If new positions at your company require less experience but offer higher salaries, you might be underpaid. A discrepancy in pay between newer, less experienced hires and yourself suggests potential underpayment for your level of expertise and tenure.

Local Salary Disparities

Comparing salaries for similar positions in your geographic area can reveal whether you’re earning less than the local average. If salaries for comparable roles in your region are consistently higher, it indicates potential underpayment based on regional standards.

Stagnant Salary

If your salary hasn’t increased over time, you may be falling behind inflation and market standards. Despite years of service and potential performance improvements, a lack of salary growth suggests you’re not being fairly compensated for your loyalty and contributions.

Specialized Career

Highly specialized careers should command higher salaries reflective of unique expertise. If your specialized skills and knowledge aren’t adequately reflected in your compensation, it’s a sign you’re being underpaid for your valuable expertise.

High Demand Career

Industries experiencing high demand for talent should offer competitive salaries to retain skilled employees. If your career field is in high demand but your salary doesn’t reflect this, it suggests potential underpayment compared to market demand.

Inflation Consideration

Failure to adjust salaries for inflation can result in de facto pay cuts over time. If your salary increases don’t keep pace with inflation rates, you’re effectively earning less in real terms, indicating potential underpayment.

Selective Raises

Offering salary increases to new hires but not existing employees may signal underpayment. If your company prioritizes raising salaries for newcomers but neglects current employees, it suggests you’re being underpaid relative to market rates and contributions.

High Turnover

A revolving door of departing colleagues could indicate dissatisfaction with compensation levels. Frequent turnover suggests employees may feel underpaid or undervalued, signaling potential underpayment issues within the organization.

Company Growth, Stagnant Salaries

Company success should translate to employee compensation; lack of salary growth amidst company prosperity suggests underpayment. If your company is thriving financially but your salary remains stagnant, it indicates you’re not reaping the rewards of its success.

Competitive Offer

Receiving a higher salary offer from another company highlights potential underpayment at your current job. If external job offers exceed your current salary, it suggests you’re being underpaid relative to your market value and skillset.

Online Salary Data

Researching average salary data online for your position can reveal discrepancies between your pay and industry standards. If the listed average salary is lower than your current salary, it’s a sign you may be underpaid.

Online Salary Calculator

Utilizing online salary calculators tailored to your industry and experience level can help pinpoint whether your compensation aligns with expectations. These calculators provide metrics specific to your position, aiding in determining if you’re being paid fairly.

Unchanged Salary, Increased Responsibilities

If your workload has expanded but your salary has stayed stagnant, you may be receiving less compensation than you deserve. A disparity between added responsibilities and unchanged pay indicates potential underpayment.

Discrepant Benefits

Comparing your benefits package to those of your colleagues can uncover disparities that suggest underpayment, even if your salaries are similar. If your benefits are comparatively less comprehensive, it’s a sign your overall compensation may be inadequate.

Industry Transition

If transitioning to a higher-paying industry hasn’t resulted in a salary increase, you may be earning less than market value. Your new role’s starting salary, based on your previous lower-paying position, suggests you’re being underpaid.

Lack of Negotiation

Failure to negotiate your salary, especially after years in the same position, could indicate you’re being paid below market rates. Negotiating for higher compensation can help ensure you’re being fairly compensated for your work.

Disparity in Internal Salaries

Discovering that similar positions within your company command higher salaries may signal underpayment. If colleagues with comparable roles earn more, it suggests your salary may not reflect your true worth.

Colleague Comparisons

If colleagues with similar backgrounds earn more than you, it’s a red flag for potential underpayment. Comparing your salary to peers with similar education and experience levels helps determine if you’re being paid fairly.

Lack of Performance Reviews

The absence of regular performance reviews may indicate your employer’s reluctance to discuss compensation, possibly indicating underpayment. Performance reviews provide opportunities to discuss salary and ensure you’re being adequately compensated.

Recruiter Insights

Insights from job recruiters can shed light on prevailing salary trends, helping gauge whether you’re being underpaid. Recruiters can provide valuable information about industry standards, allowing you to assess if your current compensation is competitive.

10 Signs You’re Suffering From Extreme Burnout (And What To Do About It)

It’s too easy to get extreme burnout in today’s non-stop hustle. Burnout sneaks up on you, leaving you wiped out, disconnected, and struggling to keep up with everyday demands. Spotting the signs early is key to tackling it head-on. Here are 10 signs you suffer from extreme burnout and what to do about it.

Constant Fatigue and Exhaustion

It’s one thing to feel tired after a marathon meeting day, but if you’re constantly dragging yourself through the day, even after a good night’s sleep, burnout might be knocking at your door. This isn’t just about physical tiredness; it’s the kind that makes you feel emotionally and mentally drained, too. The best antidote? Make sure you’re getting enough rest and quality sleep. Your body and mind will thank you for those regular breaks and eight solid hours.

Lack of Motivation

Remember when you were all in, ready to conquer the world? If that feeling’s gone and everything feels like a chore, it’s a classic burnout red flag. It’s not just about work; even your hobbies might not spark joy anymore. Try setting small, daily goals to get back that sense of achievement. Celebrate the small wins; they add up and help reignite your spark.

Frustration and Other Negative Emotions

Are you feeling like you’re on a short fuse or indifferent? When burnout hits, it’s common to feel a mix of disillusionment, irritability, or even resentment. It’s tough, but acknowledging these feelings is the first step to turning things around. Mindfulness or a chat with a pro can help you navigate these choppy emotional waters. Remember, it’s okay to feel this way; there are ways to return to your calm center.

Cognitive Problems

Burnout could mess up your cognitive skills if your brain feels like it’s in a constant fog and you’re forgetting things left and right. Concentration takes a nosedive, and even simple tasks can feel overwhelming. Break tasks into bite-sized pieces and cut down on multitasking. This helps clear the fog and makes things feel more manageable. Trust me, your brain will breathe a sigh of relief.

Slipping Job Performance

Not hitting the mark at work like you used to? If your job performance has taken a nosedive, it might not just be an off day but burnout. It’s not just about being less productive; you might feel disconnected from your work altogether. Talk to your boss about adjusting your workload or seeking support. Remember, it’s about finding balance again, not sprinting to the finish line.

Interpersonal Problems at Home and Work

Are you finding yourself snapping at colleagues or retreating from family and friends? Burnout often leads to a short temper and pulling away from the people who matter most. It’s crucial to work on communication and set clear boundaries. This doesn’t just help with stress; it can mend and strengthen your relationships. Plus, it’s about giving yourself the space you need to recharge.

Detachment and Isolation

When you start pulling away from the world, preferring your own company a little too much, it’s often a sign of burnout. This isn’t just about taking a breather; it’s about feeling disconnected from everything and everyone. Reaching out to friends or getting involved in something outside work can make a big difference. It’s about reconnecting with the world around you and finding joy in it again.

Declining Physical Health

Headaches, stomach issues, or just feeling run down all the time? Your body’s telling you it’s not okay. Burnout doesn’t just mess with your mind; it also takes a toll on your body. Prioritize self-care and don’t ignore persistent health issues. A check-up might be in order, and don’t forget, taking care of your health is a top priority.

Questioning Your Life and Career Choices

Ever find yourself wondering, “How did I get here?” or thinking about a total life overhaul? It’s a common symptom of deep burnout. You’re craving a change because nothing feels right anymore. Exploring new career paths or hobbies can bring some excitement into your life. Remember, it’s never too late to make a change that makes you happier.

Feeling Trapped and Helpless

Feeling stuck in a rut, like there’s no way out, is the epitome of burnout. It’s like being in a maze with no exit. But here’s the thing: there’s always a way out. Focus on the things you can change, even if they’re small. Every step forward is a step out of that rut; before you know it, you’ll be back on solid ground.

7 Perfect Jobs If You Love to Read

7 Perfect Jobs If You Love to Read

Reading has always been one of my favorite pastimes. It has also been one of the most important skills that have helped me advance my education and career. However, if you are looking to turn this passion into profit, here are 7 jobs for those who love to read.

7 Perfect Jobs for Those Who Love to Read

1. Library or Bookstore Staff

When I was a kid, it was my dream to live in the library. Sadly, I had to settle for volunteering during summer vacation. Although it was a chore for some, it was heaven for me. Not only did I have unlimited access to all the books in the city, but I also got the first chance to borrow the latest ones as soon as they hit the shelves.

While many pursue a degree in library and information science, it is still possible to find other jobs that revolve around books. If you want to work in the library, they hire assistants to help guests, restock shelves, create promotional material for events, and lead story hours for children. The other alternative would be to look for vacancies at local bookstores. Although it can provide employment opportunities and access to books, you’ll have to be careful not to spend your entire paycheck.

2. Audiobook Narrator

Becoming an audiobook narrator is another idea for those who love reading. Audiobooks have increased in popularity in the last decade because they allow us to multitask. People can easily enjoy their favorite books while they do chores, run errands, exercise, or go about other daily activities.

But, did you know that they pay people to narrate? Although some famous personalities have made a name for themselves, they also hire regular people with excellent narration skills. You could have the opportunity to work with new authors by recording chapters or entire audiobooks. Just keep in mind that you will need quality recording equipment to get the most lucrative contracts.

3. Book Reviewer

If you already love reading, you could work as a book reviewer to share your insights and opinions with others. Those who are interested in this position can find jobs through freelance websites, online magazines, and other publishers in the industry.

And if you can’t land an official contract, you could create your own site for book reviews. This option offers more control over the content and subject matter as well. You could keep it purely for reviews, or make it a regular newsletter that focuses on new releases, best sellers, or specific genres.

If you decide to host your own blog or podcast, you could build a large following by sharing your opinions, scheduling interviews with authors, and promoting new books. However, your greatest chance of financial success is through advertising and paid subscribers. Social media presents many new opportunities. And, you never know…hosting your own site could open the door for other partnerships and sponsorships.

4. Proofreader

Once the author finishes writing, books must then go through edits, fact-checking, and proofreading. There are thousands of manuscripts submitted every day. So if you have a strong grasp of the grammar rules of the English language and an eye for detail, proofreading is one of the best jobs for people who love to read.

You could earn a decent living helping people perfect their work. This includes looking for grammatical, typographical, punctuation, formatting, and other errors as you read. Some publishers and authors will also pay extra to have it converted to e-book formatting as well.

If you’re looking for these jobs, you can start by contacting publishing houses, posting your services through freelance marketplaces, or advertising directly to the writers. Not only can you make it a full-time career, but you also get to sneak peek at material even before it’s available to the general public.

5. Tutor

For those who want to share their passion for reading, tutoring offers many benefits.  In addition to helping others improve their comprehension, you also help students develop their analytical skills and gain a real appreciation for the written word. And since it is such a fundamental skill, you can choose subjects that interest you and have more say about who you work with.

Reading is a crucial component of a good education.  Therefore, there are many ways to find tutoring positions. Many people will post in the online forums. But, you can also search for tutoring agencies that find students for you. And course, there’s always the old-fashioned way of asking around for references. For those committed to continuing their learning while helping others, tutoring jobs are a great way to bring in extra income.

6. Book Club Moderator

I’ve been a member of many book clubs over the years. They were usually informal meetings, which meant attendance and participation were inconsistent. But after doing some research, I’ve learned that there are more serious book clubs and jobs if you love to read. These clubs are a fun and interactive way to find other bibliophiles. And, members have more incentive to attend discussions since they are paying for it.

If you can find a job as a paid moderator, you would be responsible for researching new books, keeping notes, writing discussion questions, and leading in-person or online discussions. Your main priority is to ensure that there are always interesting topics and insights to discuss. Plus, you may be able to sell the content as course material when you are done.

7. Writer

Many avid readers dream of becoming an author someday. You probably already know dozens of people with pet projects and half-finished manuscripts. But thanks to the internet, it has become much easier to get published.

There are always opportunities for talented writers to turn their ideas into publishing deals. However, if it was easy, then everyone would be doing it. Therefore, you need to know the market you’re getting into, research the industry, and practice your craft every day to keep your skills sharp.

Most authors will tell you that the most important thing is to find your voice, then find your niche. Don’t be afraid to ask others to read your work and help you determine what can make you a stand-out author. Although it may not have been the career path you set out on, it could help you make a living by doing what you love.

Bonus Job: Flip Vintage Comics Books 

The biggest comic book fans today don’t even read comic books. While it helps to know something about comic book culture to flip comic books, you don’t have to be an expert.

The collectibles market experiences temporary surges whenever a new superhero film is announced.  You still need to make connections and know which auction and social media marketplace site to use for your benefit. But there is a demand for old comic books that you can take advantage of as comic book film hype continues.

Regularly check the market value of your comics for free on an online comic book price guide. Then, you can hustle to sell them.

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