How Valuable Are Your Skills?

“My company pays very poorly. What must I do to get paid more?” A mentee recently posed this question to me.

Curious, I asked, “If you feel your company is really paying you poorly, why are you not quitting and looking out for another job that pays better?”

“I have been trying for other roles elsewhere but with no luck,” my young friend replied.

In this delicate situation, I had to provide feedback that he could use to improve, all while maintaining a positive tone.

Here’s what my advice was.

“Our current earnings are, in most situations, a reflection of our skills.

Therefore, consider building your skills if you feel your salary is low. As you improve your skills, your earning potential will increase proportionally.

The clearer your key stakeholders are about the specific and valuable skills you possess, the greater your chances of securing the salary you genuinely deserve.”