I am a registered dietitian and career coach. I provide tips on job search strategy, networking, and career opportunities specific to dietitians and those in the nutrition field.
Is your new coworker earning more?
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Hello Reader, Over the past few weeks, I have had three dietitians reach out to me with similar frustrations- their companies were advertising positions at salaries higher than what they're currently making OR they found out a coworker was making more for the same role. 👉 Sarah (*names all changed) found out that her brand new coworker is making $7,000(!!!) more for the exact same position, yet he has zero years of experience and she has 5 years of experience. 👉 Kira discovered that her company is now offering a sign-on bonus that wasn't available when she started 6 months ago. 👉 And this one takes the cake- Abby received an automated LinkedIn message from a recruiter at a telehealth company offering a starting pay higher than what she currently makes (even though she ALREADY works for them). Oops! Sound familiar? Unfortunately, this can be a fairly common occurrence, especially in harder to staff positions like clinical roles. So what can you do if you discover a coworker is making more? Check out my tips below 👇 Your Action Plan: The "Market Rate Check"Here's exactly how to investigate and address this situation: Step 1: Do Your Detective Work
Step 2: Build Your Case When you find a discrepancy, don't panic or get emotional. Instead, gather your evidence:
Step 3: Have the Right Conversation Here's the key language to use: "I'd like to discuss a salary adjustment to bring my compensation in line with current market rates." Notice I said adjustment, not raise. You're not asking for more money because you want it - you're asking for fair compensation based on current market conditions and your proven value. This also isn't about bringing your coworker down. Try to speak in general terms like "it's come to my attention that new hires are making more". Try to focus on the value you bring and not focus on "being fair". However, you might have to disclose your inside knowledge about the specific coworker if they won't budge. Remember, it's NOT ILLEGAL to talk about salaries. But again, focus on your value. What If They Say No?If your manager claims there's no budget for adjustments, ask these questions:
Remember, the worst they can say is no - and you'll have valuable information about how your company values retention versus recruitment. This might also be your sign that it's time to start job searching. Sometimes having an offer in hand from another company is a great way to leverage a raise at your current company. P.S. If you need help building your case for a salary adjustment or practicing the conversation, I offer one-on-one salary negotiation coaching sessions. Sometimes having an objective third party review your situation and help you practice can make all the difference. Featured Resource:Speaking of money, have you checked out my resources on salary and pay? Here are a few of my top articles: ​The Highest Paying Dietitian Jobs: An Overview of RD Salaries ​ ​Salary Negotiation for Dietitians: Your Guide to Making More Money ​ Weekly Job Round-Up:Whether you're seriously looking for jobs or just perusing, here are some unique jobs to check out this week:
Keep missing out on opportunities or want to make personal requests? Join us in The Dietitian Collaborative where I share a roundup several times a week and you'll get daily access to hot jobs! *These are not affiliate or referral links. Each week I search job boards to share unique opportunities with you. I share a mix of remote and in-person roles. I recommend saving job titles that pique your interest- you can also look for local opportunities. Cheers! Registered Dietitian & Founder of The RD Coach ​www.therdcoach.com ​ Before you go.... here are a few more ways I can help you:​The Dietitian Collaborative: Transform your career journey by joining our supportive community of forward-thinking RDs. Get exclusive access to curated job opportunities, learn from dietitians thriving in non-traditional roles, and receive group career coaching to accelerate your progress. ​1:1 Career Coaching: Skip the frustration of figuring it out alone. My personalized coaching helps you clarify your career direction, craft standout application materials, and master interviews with confidence. |
​The RD Coach
I am a registered dietitian and career coach. I provide tips on job search strategy, networking, and career opportunities specific to dietitians and those in the nutrition field.
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