Nearly 10yrs working here....

sterl1ng

...and although at times I get a buzz from what I do (I'm a PA) I find also I feel financially undervalued. Luckily we get given bonus/pay rises on annual basis based on our performance. My performance improved last year and so I got given a better rating HOWEVER on the day I was told my bonus/increase it was exactly the same as last years. When my boss asked me how I felt I just nodded like an idiot to say that was fine but really when I thought more and more about it I've been feeling underpriced...especially when I look at the market rate, I'm below the average pay in my industry.

So last week I took bull by horns and spoke with my boss about my surprise that despite my improved rating performance I was very surprised to get given the same then I pointed out that it was below the market. He said its a shame we hadn't had this convo before all the bonus/salary was discussed last year but I hadn't realised he is that clueless on such things as I'd figure HR would advise?? but then it made me think that clearly i'm not factored it as I'm just admin to them at end of day. He knows I feel partially and he said hopefully things will improve but really I cannot help feel its taking the mick a bit and also I have a lot more on my plate. He said nothing can be done this year on salary but maybe next year. I just cannot help it will be same ole same ole. Problem is I'm now looking to buy a home plus i'm scared of leaving as its nearly 10yrs I've been here. My bf says I should see how next year pans out. The benefits here are good (espeically maternity leave) so hence i'm still here. I told my boss that I haven't walked out from this place as I like the benefits and this company, plus given the fact i've been here so long it shows i'm very loyal. Anyhoo, see how things pan out but I really feel devalued here and quite frankly its irritating me.

Takeaway_Addict

Is there a question?

You maybe below pay but how many offer the benefits your company does?

Tiddlywinks

I also am unclear about what you want to know.

You need to sit down and do a SWOT analysis - one for staying and one for going. That will allow you to see the wood for the trees.

The obvious plus for staying is that you are well established there... the con is that you do not feel valued.

Everything is a trade-off and, considering the current economic climate, you need to look before you leap.

Plus, you have already hinted to your boss that the existing benefits keep you there so why would he offer anything more?

sterl1ng

Most likely i'd stay put as benefits are good, it was more to address my concern on the lack of pay increase.

view

I know exactly how you feel. I think actually you're over being a PA.

Things you need to understand... PAs are underpaid. They are generally not considered a full integrated 'team member', or to be having a proper career, they don't feature on succession plans and can be overlooked when it comes to bonus schemes. PA's generally aren't offered secondments (or have to fight for them). Many bosses don't really understand how important a very good PA can be until they leave.

I have been a PA/EA for 14 years and that's just my experience above. I'm pretty fed up also (that's what I'm reading from your post)

Not saying as a PA you won't be liked or not get to do team things etc.. but for me personally, I always felt like an outsider looking in.

Sounds like a career change is maybe something to consider, look at what transferable skills you have, events, Hr etc..

A PA basically just carries out someone else's work. Would you be be happier feeling like you were actually carrying out your own work?

Big thinking time ahead for you...

Jox

I'm a PA in Central London and am very happy with my salary but don't have enough work to do so am tempted to look elsewhere but wouldn't want a drop in salary.

That's probably not very helpful but just wanted to share!