salary not increased as promised

[malaynab]

When I was hired, I was told that after 4 months, I would be reviewed and given a $2500 raise. I was reviewed, but received a report saying that my raise is only $1000. My supervisor is very busy and didn't have time to discuss it yesterday, so I e-mailed her about it. She acknowledged the e-mail, but has not addressed my question yet. What should I do? I'm counting on that raise to pay my student loans. :confused:

[Unregistered]

Did you get that raise promise in writing? Typically that is the best way to go. More than likely your supervisor will com through with it if it was promised.
I had a similar situation with my first job after college. I did have to mention the promised pay increase a couple of times but approached it positively since it was based on my work evaluation. Basically I asked for my work review and then mentioned that we had discussed a pay raise based on a positive review. It may also help to highlight how you benefit your employer and how those benefits coincide with the position you were hired for. That way you prove your worth while still sounding upbeat.

[malaynab]

The promise was not in writing. I know that the CEO has to approve the raise and think that it was his decision to make it $1000. I'm hoping that by reminding my supervisor, she will push for an increase. She's out of town today and tomarrow though, so I've heard no response. I'll definitely try to keep the tone positive though, pointing out the benefits of having me as an employee. Thanks for the response.

Malayna

[Spud-Child]

In general I think it is always good to keep documentation of conversations and beneficial changes you have helped a company implement in writing....second, It's best to have conversations regarding salary kept at a time that is convenient for your supervisor to have a confidential chat. This is not always the most convenient time for you. I took a pay cut with the job I am at now, which was alright because I had more benefits, and the work load was much lighter, however, after a couple months my job duties increased to the point that I was being drastically underpaid. I approached it by asking my supervisor to join me for lunch some place away from the office, and at that time, told my superviser that I understood that we were in a bad economy, and the budget was tight, however I had certain expectations when I began working with the company and that those expectations were not currently being met. I was able to present good reasons why I was deserving of the raise, and a solid asset to the company. I also assured my supervisor that I planned on making a long-term commitment to the company, but without the raise I honestly (and non-threateningly) would not be able to make an assurance of that. Supervisors understand that you have to be able to earn enough to support yourself. I feel that if they understand that you are not requesting something unreasonable and it is going to make the difference between being in debt and being able to pay the bills they will generally try to help as much as possible. Good luck!

[malaynab]

I finally got a response from the supervisor. She said that when she approved the raise amount suggested by the CEO, she didn't consult my file. After I e-mailed her about it, she pulled my file and it was noted inside that my raise at 120 days would total $2500. That was all it took. I had written it down when she hired me and luckily, she had written it down too. She said she was glad that I e-mailed her because it was her mistake. It turned out fine this time, but next time, I'll make sure I get it in writing. :)


Malayna

[Spud-Child]

Conratulations!