When you leave each day for work, you do your best – and you expect your employer to pay you fairly. However, it’s not uncommon for employers to subject their employees to wage discrimination.
Wage discrimination happens when you are paid less than your team members for equal work because of your race, gender, religion or some other protected characteristics. Here are two things you need to do if you believe you are not getting fair pay for your input:
Do your homework
The easiest way to find out if you are getting paid less for work done is by comparing your pay to that of your co-workers in similar roles.
If your co-workers have the same qualification and experience levels and are performing the same assignments, then you should expect them to earn the same salaries as you. If they are earning more, then you should ask why this is so. There is a pretty good chance you are a victim of pay discrimination.
Seek clarification
Chances are your organization has an internal grievances resolution mechanism and procedure. If it does, book an appointment with the responsible department for clarification. You can also take this matter up with the human resources department. Sometimes, the HR department can address your concerns and resolve the matter.
However, if this does not happen, then you may consider filing a wage discrimination lawsuit against your employer.
Not many things are demoralizing like being discriminated against. Find out how you can protect your rights and interests while pursuing a wage discrimination lawsuit.