Q. As a recent college graduate I was thrilled to find a job in journalism. I was hired four months ago by a mid-market TV station in Alaska to work on its Web site. My daily tasks are similar to those performed by a newspaper's copy desk -- script editing, photo selection and page layout. It's not glamorous, but it's certainly a job where having a bachelor of arts in journalism is helpful.
ASK JOE A QUESTION
|
To get your question answered on this page, send it to Joe. Please include your full name in your message. If you prefer that your surname not be published, please indicate that. Sign up to receive Ask the Recruiter by e-mail. (sent Monday-Friday at 8 a.m.) |
|
When I was hired, I had no real grasp on the cost of living or on the expenses I would incur. Everything costs 10 to 20 percent more in Alaska than it did back home, and student loan collectors are looking for their money back. Had I known when I was hired, I certainly would have asked for more pay than was offered. I was naive and overwhelmed by the thought of my first real job.
I know it's customary to be reviewed every six months by an employer. Am I out of line asking for an earlier review (and hopefully a pay hike)? Am I out of luck for the next few months?
Really getting tired of Ramen noodles,
Living on the AirA. What can it hurt?
The worst place you can wind up is exactly where you are right now. But, at least they would then
know your position and be thinking about it as they go into salary review time.
So, you could make an appointment and tell the bosses about your situation.
They will no doubt understand.
But they will not give you a raise because you need it. They will do it only if you can show them that you deserve it.
If you don't think your work in these first four months has exceeded your bosses' expectations as much as the cost of living has exceeded yours, I'd wait two more months -- and spend them working hard.
The recruiter asks back: What do you think? Can this work? Do you know anyone who has tried it? Tell us by clicking
here.
Coming Tuesday: She asks what is behind recent buyouts and layoffs and how conditions will affect the ethnic media.
