Did you know that 48% of professional workers in the Philippines admit that they are underpaid?
But here’s a harder pill to swallow.
If you are underpaid, there’s a big chance that you are at fault.
Harsh, isn’t it?
The good news is that it’s not yet the end, and you can do something to turn the tables around.
The important question though is, do you know your worth?
Do you have what it takes to negotiate for a better salary?
Now, let’s talk about why you might not be getting the right pay grade.
You Are Unaware of the Industry Standard
Most newcomers are excited to start their freelancing journey and will accept the first offer without realising that it’s below the industry standard. This pulls the rates backward across the industry, and employers will think you are okay with it (along with all the freelance workers in the Philippines). It has now become a systemic problem that can be resolved by educating yourself about the most updated pay grade.
Before signing an agreement, join forums and communities for freelance workers like Online Filipino Freelancers to stay updated with the current rates for your job position.
You Failed to Understand the Entire Scope of Work
Often, freelance workers would sign a contract without even identifying the full scope of work. And when the real job comes in, you are caught by surprise because you are stretching yourself waaaay too thin.
Whilst going above and beyond for your employers has its own benefits, not getting paid for it is a different story. Sure, you could get a promotion or a pay increase—only if your superiors see your effort.
But what if they don’t?
Before you blame the management, you also have to understand that they have a lot on their plate. The ball is already on your court.
As they always say, “If you don’t ask, you don’t get.”
Now, here comes the tricky part.
You Don’t Want to Look Aggressive
Many freelance workers in the Philippines are reluctant to ask for a pay raise. For the most part, they don’t know what to do. And according to freelancers that we’ve worked with, not speaking up about salary stems from the Filipino culture of giving high regard to authorities. They still think that asking for a higher wage is an aggressive move.
Remember, it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.
It’s all about being assertive.
Did you know that 55% of employees say they’ve missed great work opportunities by not being assertive enough? If you believe what you are doing is beyond your pay grade, set a meeting with your managers, and prepare your case.
The Ultimate Do’s and Don’ts When Asking Your Client For a Pay Rise
Here’s something to ponder on. How will others see your value if you yourself can’t see it?
You Need to Do It Now
Being underpaid is more than just lacking financial stability. Unpaid bills and non-existent savings are just the tips of the iceberg. But what’s more concerning about being underpaid is its emotional and psychological effects. In most cases, underpaid freelance workers in the Philippines feel unappreciated and demoralised. Knowing that you are not getting what you’re worth also affects your confidence, and before you know it, you are trapped in that vicious cycle.
Don’t let that happen.
Final Words
Employers know how to value their best assets. And if you can show them what you have brought and will bring to the table, they will not hesitate to give you that raise.
