Even though it is unjustifiable to moan over a salary that you have agreed to work upon, it is okay to expect the salary to increase as the time passes, given the rate of living going northwards all the time.
However, to ensure that your salary is not stagnant and that there is continuous upwards variation in it, you need to formulate a strategy that will help you in ensuring that your salary continues to be augmented during the course of your career.
1) Observe and Follow Latest Industry Trends
If the field you are working in is constantly facing financial ups and downs, don't just cling on to the job, because it is secure and you feel comfortable and don't want to risk it unnecessarily. Upgrade your academic qualifications, get advanced degrees and acquire better skills that will give you higher, more paying positions.
2) Don't Stop Learning
Those who stop learning, stop growing. Never miss an opportunity to go to industry conferences or lectures. Exchange ideas and information with colleagues and experts in your field of work. Continue to learn about your line of work, so that you stay current with trends and developments.
3) If Your Salary Has Suddenly Stopped Growing, Ask Yourself Why?
It is often found that in the beginning of their careers, employees see a succession of speedy salary increments. In some case the increase is pretty substantial as well. However, they find that soon, not only does the increase decrease, in many cases it tapers off totally. The reasons could be manifold. You could have started on a lesser salary and as you gained experience, the management increased your salary to levels at which they should have been in the beginning.
It could also be that your contributions have become slack, or the work that you do for the company is not something that the company is making a lot of money on. Once you comprehend the reason, you can act accordingly. If you feel that growth in this particular field has reached saturation point, is time to move on and pursue a more lucrative area.
4) Advertise And Sell Yourself - Within And Outside Of Your Company
Sell yourself. Let your work speak for you and tell everyone who knows you just how valuable you are. Showcase your work and make sure you are constantly visible to others in your industry and your workplace. Just don't slog away and let others take the credit and hog the limelight. At work, take on difficult challenges that others are reluctant to take and make sure that management is aware of what you have done.
5) Build Communication Skills
Develop yourself and build your communication skills. This will help build contacts and give you more employment options, if you decide that you need a change of job. If you are working for a company that is a business with a known face, say Apple or Microsoft, having it on your resume will make a huge difference to your chances.
6) Consider Other Income Outlets
There are people who manage their time at the main jobs in such a manner that they have time to take on consulting work or teach a course in their field. This will not only help increase their income but also give them a safeguard in case their current job faces some sort of a problem. It will also be a plus on their resumes and help them in their search for new jobs.
7) Work Beyond Stipulated Times
If you work beyond normal working hours, you would be entitled to a premium due to the higher physical and social costs involved. You could also volunteer to work for any 'special project' or during late-night shifts. Not only will this win you respect and admiration from the management, it will also mean extra money in your kitty.
8) Increase In Salary Is Not The Only Reason To Value Your Job
Raises and promotions are given to workers who deserve and merit them. They don't ask for it, their work does the talking. Let your work evoke trust, competence and quality and the money will automatically follow. But remember, it is always important to bring new skills to your job and ensure that you deserve the money increment.
