The President of the United States currently makes $400,000 a year, which is set by congress and is one of the highest-paying government jobs out there. But you don’t have to be the president to make six-figures working in the government.

gif of colonial person saying how wonderfully bureaucratic

Government jobs are a great option for folks who want to serve their community while earning a stable income. They're currently boosting job growth with 294,000 new government jobs being added so far in 2024, according to employment data from the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ces/">U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>, and were named one of the next hot jobs in the place of tech jobs for teens and Gen Z by <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-hot-jobs-tech-layoffs-healthcare-government-careers-2024-7">Business Insider</a>.These don’t only include jobs in the federal government, but also jobs in state and local government, military, public health, infrastructure, administrative, and legislative branch jobs.&nbsp;Besides the fact that jobs in the public sector are owned and managed by the government rather than private ownership, the job duties themselves aren’t that much different between the two sectors. This is especially true for roles with comparable titles and functions.There are many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying jobs</a> in government, with the highest salary recorded in our Salary Database of $200,000 for civil engineers. They also may provide certain benefits that aren’t available at private companies, such as pensions. Similar to the role of unions for <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trade jobs</a>, several government jobs also have a strong union presence, providing collective bargaining power for wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Government Workers On Benefits, Pay Transparency, and More! The Break Room | Episode 11

Key points:<ul><li>The highest-paying government jobs are attorneys, air traffic controllers, nurse practitioners, and cybersecurity analysts.</li><li>Not all top-paying government jobs require a degree. Some may hire based on skills, certifications, or experience.</li><li>Contrary to the private sector, all government salaries are publicly shared.</li><li>Browse thousands of more publicly shared salaries on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-databas">Salary Database</a> – for both private and public sectors.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>9 Highest-Paying Government Jobs That Can Make Over $100k in 2024</h2>Transparency is the name of the game - and we're here for it! Government jobs actually paved the way for salary transparency. Before there were any <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> set, public sectors were already fighting <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-discrimination">pay discrimination</a> and have been sharing salary data since the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/foia#:~:text=The%20Freedom%20of%20Information%20Act%20(FOIA)%20allows%20any%20person%20the,in%20writing%20by%20any%20person.">Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) </a>was enacted in 1966. Now it’s time for us to sink our teeth into some of that juicy data.After pulling together salary data from the past 2+ years of interviews, our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>, the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/">U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook</a> and the <a href="https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/">U.S. Office of Personnel Management</a>, we’ve identified 9 top-earning government jobs in high demand for 2024.You can find all of the highest government salaries we recorded by filtering for “government” in our <a href="http://salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>. Don’t forget to join and add your salary too!<h2>1. Attorney</h2>

Attorneys that work in government have similar responsibilities and duties to private attorneys, but instead of representing individuals or businesses, they represent the government. They usually work for government agencies at the local, state, or federal level, with duties that may include prosecuting criminal cases, providing legal advice to government departments, or drafting and enforcing regulations.One reason why government attorneys are paid well is the heightened level of responsibility and specialized expertise required for their position. They must holistically understand public law and government procedures, and also be skilled in researching legal issues, drafting legal documents, and preparing reports for governmental use.Education needed: A Juris Doctor (JD) degree and passing the bar exam.Median salary: $145,760 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $157,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 8% increase in job growth

Lawyers Make How Much?! Legal Professionals Compilation | Salary Transparent Street

<h2>2. Air Traffic Controller</h2>When we take a plane flight anywhere, there are air traffic controllers that work at several different airports to make sure we have a safe trip through coordinating different aircrafts. The only difference for government air traffic controllers is that they typically work for national aviation authorities, such as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Many may also come from a military background and bring experience from military air traffic control.Air traffic controllers undergo extensive training to handle the high-stakes nature of their job and require a specific set of hard skills to perform their day-to-day duties. A few of these skills include knowledge of radar and surveillance systems and the ability to communicate effectively. They must also have exceptional flight data and aerospace management skills.Education needed: The completion of an associate’s or Bachelor's degree through <a href="https://www.faa.gov/jobs/students/schools">AT-CTI programs</a> set by the FAA and complete training at the <a href="https://www.faa.gov/">Federal Aviation Administration</a> (FAA) academy.Median salary: $137,380 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $170,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 1% increase in job growth

How much does an #AirTrafficController make?📍Arlington, VA #salarytransparentstreet

<h2>3. Nurse Practitioner</h2>The demand for government nurse practitioners is skyrocketing. The position was named the best job in 2024 by <a href="https://money.usnews.com/money/careers/articles/the-25-best-jobs#:~:text=Nurse%20anesthetists%20are%20registered%20nurses,critical%20decisions%20about%20patient%20care.">U.S. News &amp; World Report</a> with a projected 118,600 new jobs by 2032.

The difference between nurse practitioners that work for the government versus those that work in the private sector is they often work within public health clinics, VA hospitals, or military facilities. Their primary duties are to provide healthcare services, diagnosing and treating patients.&nbsp;Skills needed to be a successful nurse practitioner are advanced clinical knowledge, proficiency in medical procedures, and expertise in pharmacology. They must also understand the unique needs of military or veteran patients if they work in military settings or Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals.Education needed: Become a registered nurse (RN) through an accredited nursing program, obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), a masters degree, and be board certified.&nbsp;Median salary: $129,480Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $164,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 38% increase in job growth

How Much Do Nurses Make? Nurse Salary Compilation 💚 Salary Transparent Street

<h2>4. Cybersecurity Analyst or Specialist</h2>Positions in cybersecurity are set to soar in the next ten years, especially those in the government. So much so that the national cyber director is openly encouraging the adoption of skill-based hiring to fill these jobs, according to a 2024 <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/oncd/briefing-room/2024/04/29/press-release-wh-cyber-workforce-convening/">press release</a> by The White House.U.S. government intelligence data is a coveted item by hackers, and cyber security analysts are there to protect it. Analysts typically work for federal agencies, such as the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Security Agency (NSA), along with the Department of Defence, and state and local governments.&nbsp;Cybersecurity analysts are experts at securing network infrastructures and protocols, including firewalls and VPNs. They’re also coders that need to write and understand code or for automating tasks, using knowledge of encryption methods to protect sensitive data. A day in the life of one of these analysts may include monitoring and responding to threats, debugging issues, and implementing security measures. &nbsp;

Education needed: A Bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or something similar. Not all jobs may require a degree and may be accepted based on skills and certifications.Median salary: $120,360 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $153,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 32% increase in job growth

🔒Cybersecurity Pay Compilation!#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>5. Economist</h2>Government economists work with economic data to inform decision-makers on the economic implications of various policies, such as reducing unemployment or controlling inflation. They typically work at federal government agencies, such as the Departments of Treasury, Commerce, and Labor and the Federal Reserve, state and local governments, and regulatory agencies.The day-to-day duties include anything from economic data analysis to modeling and predicting outcomes based on various scenarios. They must also know how to conduct research, prepare reports, and provide insights on economic issues.Education needed: A Bachelor's or Master’s degree in economics, public policy, business, or other related fields.Median salary: $115,730Highest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $175,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 6% increase in job growth &nbsp;

How much do a #BusinessAnalyst and #Economist make?📍Baltimore, MD #salarytransparentstreet

<h2>6. Data Scientist</h2>Governments can’t make decisions without understanding their data. That’s where data scientists come in. Due to the demand for data scientists and AI expertise, <a href="https://federalnewsnetwork.com/federal-report/2024/01/opm-leads-governmentwide-data-scientist-hiring-effort-to-build-up-ai-expertise/">The Office of Personnel Management (OPM)</a> announced in 2024 a governmentwide hiring effort.&nbsp;Their job is to interpret large volumes of data to inform public policy decision-making. Without them, the government wouldn’t know how to optimize government programs and services, improve efficiency, and address societal challenges.

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The daily job duties of a government data scientist include data management and analysis, and interpreting that data to create visual representations and communicate findings to stakeholders.&nbsp;Education needed: A Bachelor's degree is data science, computer science, engineering, or equivalent area. Some jobs may hire based on skills, experience, and certifications in place of a Bachelor's degree requirement.Median salary: $108,020 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $160,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 35% increase in job growth

Data Scientists Make How Much? 🤯 Data Scientist Salary Compilation 💚 Salary Transparent Street

<h2>7. Program Analyst</h2>Government program analysts use data to create policies. Their primary job duty is to evaluate and improve public programs, such as public health and economic development programs, through data analysis and reporting.&nbsp;Program analysts can be a sort of catch-all job title due to their variety of job responsibilities. Sometimes they have duties that resemble a software engineer with project management skills or being a business analyst that works to improve government processes and functions. The role may vary widely depending on the government agency and program.Skills needed to become a program analyst include coding skills using various programming languages, and expertise in interpreting data and applying methodologies. They tend to work with tools such as Excel, SAS, database management systems, and project management software.&nbsp;Education needed: A degree may not be an absolute requirement and may depend on the specific position. However, a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields like public administration, economics, or data science, or becoming a Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) or the Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) may be helpful in securing a job.Median salary: $99,410 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $134,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 10% increase in job growth

Old Town, Alexandria, VA📍#salarytransparency #equalpay #diversitymatters #howmuchdoyoumake

<h2>8. Civil Engineer</h2>Civil engineering involves the design, planning, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects that are vital to our everyday lives. Think of the roads you drive and the buildings you see. They wouldn’t exist without civil engineers.

gif of person saying i'm a civil engineer

Other projects civil engineers oversee in addition to roads and buildings include bridges, water supply systems, wastewater management, railways, airports, tunnels, flood control systems, and park and recreational facilities. Their daily duties include anything from developing and reviewing designs to performing site inspections, and vary based on the project they’re working on.Education needed: A Bachelor's degree in civil engineering is typically required.Median salary: $95,890 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $200,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 5% increase in job growth

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<h2>9. Budget Analyst</h2>A government budget analyst, also referred to as a budget officer, works for public institutions, such as federal government agencies, and state and local government departments, to help manage and track how money is spent.Government budgets go through 3 main phases; budget formulation, budget presentation/enactment, and budget execution. Budget analysts assist in these phases by analyzing past spending and future needs, and create budget proposals from their findings. From there, they help government entities stick to their budgets and track their performance.

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Their work is key to everyday public services and programs, such as education, healthcare, and social programs. The budgets they work on could end up deciding things like how much money is allocated to schools or where your tax money goes.&nbsp;Education needed: A Bachelor's degree in business, public administration, accounting, economics, or statistics is typically required.Median salary: $84,940 per yearHighest salary recorded in our Salary Database: $117,000Job outlook (2022-2032): 3% increase in job growth

The Wharf, Washington, D.C.📍#salarytransparency #equalpay #diversitymatters #howmuchdoyoumake

<h2>How to Break Into Government Jobs</h2>Many government jobs use the same transferable skills for equivalent jobs in the private sector. The skills for breaking into the public sector are no different. You go through the same motions of seeking required education, networking, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level work.&nbsp;Some government jobs pay on a per-level basis using the General Schedule (GS). There are 15 different grades, starting from GS-1 to GS-15, with GS-15 being the highest-paying classification. How these grades are assigned to different positions are based on the level of responsibility, difficulty, specific hard skills required, and qualifications required. Positions that are classified at a GS-5 and above require a Bachelor's degree, and those above GS-9 require a Master’s degree. Keep these in mind as you look at open jobs and decide what education path you’ll take.A great way to gain the most relevant experience is by looking for government agencies that have any entry-level positions open, or working contract jobs for companies that contract with the government. They don’t have to be in the specific position you’re going for, especially if you haven’t met all of the qualifications just yet, but can be in adjacent positions with less qualifications while you finish school and work your way up. However, if there is a position that you think you’d be perfect for but don’t meet all the qualifications, apply to it anyway.&nbsp;To start searching for and applying to government jobs, use <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/">USAJOBS</a>, a website managed by the U.S. government for their federal hiring process. Don’t forget to use our list of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">most common interview questions and answers</a> when preparing for your interview, and always advocate for yourself and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiate your salary</a> at any job you work.We know you’ll land a good one and can’t wait to see what differences you make in our everyday lives!That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!If this guide helps you land a higher-paying job, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

illustration of government building and dollar bills against a split green background with title text overlay that says highest-paying government jobs

9 Highest-Paying Government Jobs & How to Land Them

There are many reasons why a layoff happens. Your employer could be downsizing, restructuring, or going through other operational changes. We’ve seen lots of layoffs recently with technology companies, but it can happen within any company!

How Much Do Software Engineers Make? Reactions to AI, Layoffs and More! The Break Room Episode 5

So, what can you even do when you get laid off?&nbsp;Layoffs are emotional and you’ll need some time to process, but it’s important to stay professional throughout the process. Sit with those emotions and feel your feelings, but don’t stay there.&nbsp;Follow these steps for what to do next.Key points:<ul><li>There are laws in place that protect workers’ rights in a layoff.</li><li>Get all of the details about your layoff in writing before you sign anything.</li><li>You may be entitled to a severance package, continuation of benefits, and unemployment.</li><li>Revisit your finances and adjust your budget to account for the loss of income.</li><li>Prepare a few things to re-enter the job market with, such as recommendation letters, resume and LinkedIn updates, and connect with your professional network.</li><li>Take it day-by-day as you handle the aftermath of your layoff and search for a new job.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>Know Your Rights &amp; Revisit Your Contract</h2>Yes, employees have rights – even during a layoff! We reached out to retired employment attorney, <a href="https://delyannethemoneycoach.com/">Delyanne Barros</a>, to help us get a little more acquainted with what rights you may or may not have.&nbsp;After hearing the unsavory news of your layoff, expect a meeting request from human resources. It’s most likely to go over the details of the layoff and to ask for your signature.&nbsp;Barros says that employees should not sign anything before talking to an attorney. “Many employers will try to pressure you to sign a severance agreement or waiver on the spot. The best thing to do is to take it with you and say that you need to look it over carefully and that you will promptly get back to them,” says Barros.

Barros recommends that employees get familiar with the <a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/layoffs/warn">Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act</a>. “Most states in the US are at-will states which means that an employer can fire for any reason or none at all. However, there are specific laws that apply to certain employers when conducting mass layoffs. The WARN Act requires employers with 100 or more employees to provide 60 days notice of any mass layoffs.”&nbsp;To find whether an employer has issued a WARN notice or not, a simple google search can help. ”An employee can look up whether their employer has issued a WARN notice by googling ‘Warn notice’ plus their state. Many states also have mini-WARN Acts that provide additional protections for employees at smaller companies,” she says.Employees’ rights outside of the WARN Act can get a little tricky, but Barros says to check your employment contract to see if it outlines any specific benefits in case of a layoff, and to reach out to the <a href="https://www.nela.org/">National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA)</a> to find an employment lawyer to work with.<h2>Request a “Layoff Letter”</h2>Your company can supply a confirmation letter, or “layoff letter”, that states that your position is being terminated. Ask them to include reasons for the layoff, the effective date of termination, date of your last paycheck, and details about any severance package or benefits that you’re entitled to.Having this letter gives you official documentation of your layoff, which may come in handy when applying for unemployment benefits and future job searches. It may be necessary if there are any disputes or legal issues related to the layoff.<h2>Understand Your Severance Package</h2>

gif of jason bateman on ozark saying "where's my money"

If you’re entitled to a severance package, lucky you! That will be your lifeline after your final paycheck – so don’t overlook it. It’s best to review all the details with a member of human resources so you fully understand your severance package and if it’s fair or not.Negotiation is the name of the game with severances. Just like <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiating salary during a job offer</a>, severance packages can also be negotiated. Barros says this is where an employment lawyer also comes in handy, but many people hesitate to reach out to one because they think they’re only useful when planning to sue an employer. “However, I coached many clients behind-the-scenes during severance negotiations or negotiated on their behalf if they preferred it,” she says.Barros advises employees to “consult with an employment attorney in their state before they engage in severance negotiations. Most attorneys will offer a free consultation and may provide some guidance during that meeting.”Employees wanting to speak with an employment lawyer should check <a href="https://exchange.nela.org/memberdirectory/findalawyer">NELA’s referral directory</a> online.&nbsp;<h2>Ask About Benefits</h2>You should always negotiate. Layoffs are no exception. Similar to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiating benefits</a> during a job offer, go over your current benefits with human resources to see if compensation is warranted.&nbsp;Even if your benefit information is included in the layoff letter, discuss the specifics with human resources so you don’t have any unexpected surprises later on. Ask about health coverage changes, including the official end date of your employer-sponsored health plan and how to sign up for <a href="https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra">Continuation of Health Coverage (COBRA)</a>.&nbsp;But what about unused paid time off? You can absolutely get compensated for those if the company is able to include it.<h2>Look At Options to Continue Healthcare Coverage</h2>Depending on your employer, you may be able to sign up for COBRA to continue your health coverage. The time period for the coverage continuation usually falls around 18 months, but you’ll have to pay the full premium in addition to administration fees.

gif of larry david on snl saying "universal health care doesn't sound too crazy now, does it?"

Another option is looking at alternative health insurance options on the <a href="https://www.healthcare.gov/">Healthcare Marketplace</a>, or joining your spouse’s health plan.&nbsp;<h2>Review Your 401(k) &amp; Prepare for a 401(k) Rollover</h2>Your 401(k) is 100% yours and won’t go anywhere when you’re laid off. Employers will either keep it where it is, or transfer it to another 401(k) provider or Individual Retirement Account (IRA) of their choosing.&nbsp;This is where <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/401k-rollovers">401(k) rollovers</a> come in. It’s a good idea to rollover your 401(k) after your last day of employment so you aren’t at the mercy of the company’s choices. When rolling over a 401(k), there’s the option of transferring it to an IRA of your choosing. We recommend <a href="https://www.hicapitalize.com/?utm_source=STS&amp;utm_medium=email">Capitalize </a>to easily do this for you for free - which is one less headache for you.

&nbsp;<h2>Ask Your Boss for a Letter of Recommendation</h2>You need as many resources on your side as possible when you reenter the job market. This is where your boss can help!

gif of simon on zoey's playlist saying "morning, boss"

Set up a quick 1-on-1 with your boss during your last weeks or months at your job to see if they can write a letter of recommendation for you and if you can use them as a reference. Another option is asking them if they can fill out a recommendation for you on LinkedIn to help your profile attract recruiters.<h2>File for Unemployment Benefits</h2>Unemployment benefits are available to laid off employees if your employer contributed to the state’s unemployment insurance program. Payments from unemployment benefits, and its duration, will depend on your state.&nbsp;Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website to find your state and <a href="https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/unemployment-insurance">file for unemployment benefits</a>.<h2>Revisit Your Finances &amp; Adjust Your Budget</h2>Now that you’ve lost your primary source of income, it’s time to review your finances. Log into your different accounts including your checking, savings, and any investment accounts to take stock of your current financial situation.&nbsp;Re-adjust your budget and cut any expenses you can. If you’ve saved an emergency fund, determine how much of it you want to use and how you can rework your budget to accommodate it.<h2>Update Your Resume &amp; LinkedIn</h2>

It’s probably been awhile since you’ve updated your resume and LinkedIn. Many of us forget about them the longer we stay at one job. It’s time to update and revamp both to help you stand out when applying for jobs.Add information about your most recent job to your resume. Update it to include not only what you did, but also include the impact and results of your contributions. Then update your information on LinkedIn, including your past role and the skills used in that role. It’s also helpful to add keywords in your LinkedIn headline and select that you’re “Open to work” on your profile.<h2>Tap Into Your Network</h2>Your network is one of the most valuable resources when searching for a new job. Reach out to past colleagues on LinkedIn or other platforms, and any recruiters you’ve had contact with in the past.If you’re in any local networking groups, such as a women’s networking group or alumni organization, reconnect with them and see what events are happening near you or virtually. Online groups, such as career-focused communities on social media, can also be helpful when building a professional network.<h2>Really Think About Where You Want to Go From Here</h2>

gif with woman saying "into the next chapter of my life"

Before diving head first back into a job search, ask yourself what you really want to do from this point on. Do you want to work for a company in the same sector? Do you want the same role?&nbsp;Also think about how much you want to get paid and what sort of benefits you’re looking for in your next job. Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> and free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> can help when setting your market salary range.&nbsp;However, most people need a new job immediately to replace the loss of their primary income – especially when they don’t have an emergency fund to fall back on. You might have to charge right into a job search. If this is you, still think about what you really want to do. That next job isn’t going to be forever and if you find something better down the line, don’t be afraid to take it!<h2>Take Care of What Matters Most – Yourself</h2>Job hunting is exhausting. Take it day-by-day and know that you aren’t alone. It’s important to have some sort of structure in your days with a daily routine. Add some much-needed self care and set realistic expectations in your job search to promote a positive outlook.&nbsp;Please, please, please ask for help if you need it, whether that’s spending time with your friends to free your mind, working with a life or career coach, or reaching out to a mental health professional. There are people out there that can help you through this.That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!If this guide helps you improve your negotiation skills, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore thousands of individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

Featured image with an illustration of 3 people looking at an online search board on top of a green background with a title text overlay that reads "what to do after a layoff"

What To Do When You Get Laid Off

The growing competition in the job market is pushing applicants to find any way they can to stand out. There may be hundreds of applicants for a single job, especially for <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">higher-paying jobs</a>.<a href="https://www.jobvite.com/blog/recruiting-funnel/">Jobvite</a>, a talent acquisition technology company, found from their customer data that only 8.4% of applicants are called for a job interview. Don’t let that number scare you though! They also found that of those who get called for an interview, 36.2% of them are selected to receive offers.How you prepare for that interview could make or break your chances of getting a job offer. This is why it’s important to research and practice some of the most common job interview questions and answers out there.

What’s your least favorite job interview question? Brooklyn, NY 📍#interviewquestions

Key Points:<ul><li>We’ve gathered these top questions from interviewing those in our community (like the video above), and job sites like Glassdoor and Indeed.</li><li>Not all job interview questions will be the same for everyone. What you’re asked in an interview depends on the role and interviewer.&nbsp;</li><li>These common job interview questions are a mix of what you might get asked from both HR and your hiring manager.</li><li>Most job interviews include general, behavioral, and situational questions.</li><li>The example answers provided are for guidance and should be modified to fit your situation.</li><li>No job interview answer is the absolute right answer. There are several different ways to answer any of these questions. What’s most important is how you convey your experience, expertise, and why you’re the best fit for the job.</li><li>You don’t need to memorize your answers word-for-word but instead practice them with someone to get used to how the conversation may flow.&nbsp;</li><li>It’s recommended to find your market salary range for the position before your interview, so you’re prepared for any salary-related questions.</li><li>Use our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> to get access to thousands of reported salaries and job data from our community.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>Top 10 Most Common Job Interview Questions, Answers, &amp; Examples</h2>What’s the perfect way to land a job? A killer resume, a well-written cover letter if the job application requires it, and finally, a smooth job interview where the hiring manager falls in love with you (in a professional way).&nbsp;

If only you could read the mind of the interviewer, you would never have to fret over another job interview again. You can dream, can’t you? Well, while you’re dreaming, let’s kick your job interview preparation into high gear.&nbsp;The most common types of job interview questions are standard/traditional questions and behavioral questions. Other popular types are situational questions, competency-based questions, technical questions, and cultural-fit questions.Use this list of the most popular job interview questions and examples of possible answers to help prepare for your next interview.<h2>1. Can you tell me a bit about yourself?</h2>This is the #1 most common job interview question out there and many job interviews will start with this question. Think of your answer as “the hook” of a good story. 30% of interviewers will make up their minds about a candidate in the first 5 minutes of an interview, according to <a href="https://www.hirevue.com/blog/hiring/the-impact-of-first-impressions-on-hiring-a-data-science-perspective">HireVue</a>. When an interviewer asks you to tell them a little bit about yourself and your background, they don’t mean your entire life story. They want to hear your career story – with a good hook.

Start your story with the early days of your career and education, and add some personal notes from your background so you don’t sound like a job-wanting AI. Include how and why you wanted to pursue the specific career you have. From there, briefly talk about your work experience in ways that mirror what you would do in this job position, making you appear naturally as the best fit for the job.&nbsp;Don’t leave out any of the good details either. Mention your accomplishments and anything else that makes you the obvious choice for the job.Answer example: “Before I had 11 years of IT experience under my belt, I started playing with website development in high school. From there, I knew I wanted to do something in the technology field. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, I started my career with an internship as a web engineer working for a small web development startup company. The expertise learned in these early years set me up for my next positions as a programmer and systems analyst working in both retail and government sectors, learning how to develop for and support custom enterprise systems. That early startup experience mixed with my corporate experience led me to working for a well-known financial technology company as a software engineer, and later was promoted to a lead reliability engineer. I love learning about new technologies and ways to challenge myself as I grow in my career, and make it a priority to invest time into continually building my skills to stay ahead of the curve.”<h2>2. Why are you looking for a new position?</h2>

Be careful with this question! Avoid responding with any sarcasm, such as, “because I need money,” or, “because I need a job”. Sure, the answer to this question is obvious. We all work jobs because we need money, but the interviewer is looking for a specific answer.&nbsp;They may be looking for red flags like if you were recently fired and why. Another possibility is they want to see how committed you are to your career growth. They want to see what motivates you and the respect you have for your current or past roles.Either way, keep it light. You don’t want to end up talking bad about your current or previous employer, nor bring negativity to the overall mood of the interview.Answer example: “I don’t believe I’m being challenged enough in my current role. Although I enjoy working for that company and with my <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">fellow coworkers</a>, I feel like I am getting stagnant in my career. I am looking for other opportunities to grow my expertise and start the next chapter in my career path.”If you’re looking for a new position because you were let go and don’t currently have a job, describe that in a brief way like the following examples show. You may have to tweak these to match your own situation.Answer example: “I was let go from my most recent role due to budget constraints and left on good terms.”Answer example: “I was <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/what-to-do-when-you-get-laid-off">recently laid off </a>from my most recent position due to the company outsourcing my department. I stayed on to help with that transition and left on good terms.”<h2>3. What are your salary expectations?</h2>When asked what your salary expectations are for a job, there is more than one way to answer. It’s also your first step to negotiating your salary by setting those initial expectations. But you can’t set those expectations without knowing your own market salary range.It’s best if you can get the interviewer to provide their budget first but either way, you should have your market rate in your back pocket in case they push for it. This is where our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> come in handy. Use this guide and salary data to help you in your research and see what matches up with your own experience and skill set.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Answer example: “I have an expected range in mind based on my market rate, but it's too early in the interview process for me to gauge the full scope of this position. Would you mind sharing the budget for this role?” – The founder of Salary Transparent Street, Hannah Williams, got a $25,000 <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">raise</a> from using a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation script</a> like this!If an interviewer asks for your current or last salary, there are <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> in 36 states that may get them in trouble.&nbsp;

You can deflect the answer respectfully. Or you can reframe your answer to express your market salary and expectations.&nbsp;Answer example: “Before we discuss salary, can you please tell me more about the role and what it fully entails?”

Highest Salaries We Interviewed In 2023 | Salary Transparent Street Compilation

<h2>4. What professional achievement are you most proud of?</h2>When an interviewer asks this, they don’t only want to know what the achievement was. They also want to know what you did, what the result was for the company, and why it’s the one you’re most proud of. If you don’t cover this in your initial answer, they will most likely follow up with those points.The STAR Interview method is perfect for answering behavioral questions like this. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result and it’s a specific format to help fully convey your contributions.Answer example:Situation: "In my previous role as a marketing manager at ABC Company, we saw declining engagement with our email marketing campaigns, which was impacting our overall sales."Task: "I was tasked with updating our email marketing strategy to increase engagement and drive more sales. The goal was to achieve a 15% increase in open rates and a 10% increase in click-through rates within six months."Action: "I started by analyzing our current email campaigns to identify gaps and areas for improvement. I then segmented our email list based on customer behavior and preferences to ensure more personalized content and redesigned the email templates to be more visually appealing and mobile-friendly. I also implemented A/B testing for subject lines and call-to-action buttons to determine what resonated best with our audience. This was all while working closely with the content team to create relevant content that addressed the needs and interests of our subscribers."Result: "As a result, we saw a significant improvement in our email marketing performance. Our open rates increased by 20%, our click-through rates by 15%, and 20% increase in sales. This also strengthened our relationship with our customers by providing them with more relevant and engaging content."<h2>5. What are your strengths and weaknesses?</h2>

For this question, identify one or more of your strengths and weaknesses, and provide clear examples of each. Bonus points if you can provide examples that align with the required skills of the position.The weaknesses you want to mention should be realistic but don’t make you look bad. Don’t mention that you have trouble waking up on time, but do mention a subtle weakness like communication with an example of what you’ve done to improve that skill.Answer example:&nbsp;Strengths: "One of my key strengths is my strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to communicate effectively how to implement solutions based on that troubleshooting data. Communication is one of the most important skills in any role, for a lack of communication can be what deadlocks a project. For example, when I was faced with an enterprise-wide system outage, I had to troubleshoot the issue and find a solution quickly. I also had to communicate my progress in parallel to working on the problem itself, keeping all stakeholders in the loop so they can make sure there is a constant stream of communication also going out to clients. Because of this, the team was able to implement a solution that same day and there was no financial impact.&nbsp;Weaknesses: "An area of weakness I have is my tendency to be overly detail-oriented in my communication to higher-level stakeholders. Adding too much low-level information about an issue can cause misunderstandings and overly complicate things, which has happened to me many times during system outages. To address this, my communication includes simplified high-level detail that goes out to a high-level audience, while still keeping those detailed notes for the technical team and for record. This approach has helped to maintain a better understanding between cross-functional teams.”<h2>6. Can you describe a challenge you've faced at work and how you handled it?</h2>This is another behavioral question perfect for using the STAR method to answer. Describe what the situation was that posed a challenge, what your task and goal was, actions you took, and the end-result from those actions.Answer example:&nbsp;Situation: "In my previous role as a project manager at EFG Company, we were tasked with launching a new product line within a tight deadline of three months."Task: "My responsibility was to coordinate the efforts of the marketing, design, and production teams to ensure we met the launch date without compromising quality."Action: "I started by setting clear milestones and deadlines for each team and implemented weekly progress meetings to track our status. I also introduced a shared project management tool that improved asynchronous communication and collaboration among the team. When we faced delays from the design team, I set up brainstorming sessions to identify solutions and reallocated resources to maintain our timeline."Result: "As a result, we successfully launched the product line on time. The launch led to a 15% increase in quarterly sales and positive feedback from both customers and stakeholders."

<h2>7. Why do you want to work here?</h2>With this question the interviewer wants to see what you know about the company and how much research you did about the role. They also want to know your intentions for working there and if you’re someone that they can rely on to fulfill the requirements of the role.Answer example: “I’ve done a lot of research on the company and have used their software in many of my past jobs. Their values also align well with my own. I think that when you work for a company that you believe in and want to grow with, that adds to your job satisfaction and overall quality of life. When you’re in that type of alignment, your career path can evolve in some amazing ways. I also think this specific role perfectly matches up with my experience, expertise, and my future career goals.”<h2>8. Are there any other companies you’re interviewing with or considering?</h2>Companies want to gauge their applicants job search progress to help with their own hiring process. This is one of those questions that helps them see if there will be any competition for them when hiring you. If you have multiple companies you’re interviewing for or have offers from, feel free to say that you’re keeping your options open. And if you don’t, that’s okay to share too.

Answer example: "Yes, I’m currently exploring a few opportunities with other companies in the industry that align with my career goals and professional interests. However, I am particularly excited about this position with your company because of [specific reasons related to the company, such as its projects, culture, values, etc.].”If you don’t have any others you’re interviewing for, the following example will do.Answer example: “Not yet since I only recently started applying to a few roles. However, I am particularly excited about this position with your company because of [specific reasons related to the company, such as its projects, culture, values, etc.].”<h2>9. Why should we hire you?</h2>This question is similar to #7, “Why do you want to work here," but focuses more on you rather than what's appealing about the company or role. The interviewer wants to know what you can bring to the company if you were to be hired.Briefly explain how your contributions will add business value to the company. What results do you expect to yield and how will those help advance the company? Your answer will also come in handy when <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiating salary</a>.Answer example: “My specific skill set and experience perfectly aligns with the requirements for this role. I’ve worked as an associate for 3 years, a manager for 4 years, and over the past 2 years I have served as a regional director. I’ve also worked in several different sectors, creating the perfect combination to be able to adapt to different situations and see solutions to problems that others may not. These sort of unique advantages could help the company grow in new ways as I do alongside it.”

<h2>10. Do you have any questions for us?</h2>This is the most fun question to answer! You get to interview the interviewer, find out more about the role that wasn’t discussed, ask about salary expectations if they weren’t discussed, and ask about other things to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiate like benefits</a>.&nbsp;Make sure you have at least one or two questions ready to go for this section of the interview.

Answer examples:<ul><li>Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?</li><li>What are the most immediate projects that need to be addressed?</li><li>How do you measure success in this role?</li><li>What does a typical day look like for someone in this position?</li><li>Can you describe the team I would be working with?</li><li>How would you describe the company culture?</li><li>How does the company support professional development and career growth?</li><li>What opportunities for advancement are available within the company?</li><li>What is the salary range for the position?</li><li>What benefits does the company offer for this role?</li><li>What are the next steps in the interview process?</li><li>Is there any additional information I can provide to assist with the decision-making process?</li><li>Who should I follow up with if I have any further questions?</li></ul><h2>Bonus Interview Questions</h2>The above list of the most common interview questions and answers only scratches the surface. Some interviewers may ask entirely different questions from others, even within the same industry.There are a few additional key questions I’ve seen through years of interviewing for several different roles. These include both behavioral and situational questions.<ul><li>Walk me through the process of how you do X. (X could be anything like “writing an article," “fixing a code defect," “managing a project," etc)</li><li>Tell me about a time you had to deliver on multiple competing priorities. What did you do, and what were the results?</li><li>When do you try to push through and solve a problem on your own, and when do you involve others on your team?</li><li>Describe a situation when you disagreed with someone at work. What did you do, and what was the result?</li></ul>Don’t limit yourself to these questions and also think of a few technical questions they may ask you (especially if you're applying for <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">trade jobs</a>). A helpful way to think of other possible questions is to look at the job description. From there, you can determine if you need to prepare answers for any additional questions.<h2>Practice With a Partner</h2>You can prepare all the answers to possible job interview questions you want, but don’t get stuck in trying to memorize them all. It’ll be more helpful to practice your answers conversationally with someone else. This way, you won’t sound like a robot and your responses will be more sincere.

You can also use your practice partner as someone to talk about any fears you have. Maybe they can provide a perspective that will help you better navigate the interview.The more you practice, the better you’ll get and the less you’ll dread the day of your interview. Once that day comes around, it will feel more natural and your interview will go much better when you aren’t stuck in your head the whole time.&nbsp;You got this!! We believe in you.That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!If this guide helps you improve your negotiation skills, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><li>Want to join the movement? Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

10 Most Common Job Interview Questions and Answers (With Examples)

It’s no secret here that it’s important to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiate your salary</a> and advocate for yourself, no matter the circumstances. However, several salary negotiation myths could be holding you back from doing just that.

Harmful narratives like “negotiating salary might be seen as combative” or “I shouldn’t get greedy” come from these myths, <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/3-most-common-reasons-why-110051961.html">preventing employees from negotiating</a> and ultimately keeping them underpaid. I know it because I once had these same narratives running through my head.&nbsp;I didn’t negotiate at all for my first 2 jobs after college. I honestly thought I had no right to because I was so new to the field. Although I didn’t have any logical reason to think that, that fear comes from society’s general influence from the taboo of money and how talking about money can be seen as “rude”.&nbsp;Imagine if I negotiated my pay for those first 4 years of my career, what I could have done with that money, and how that would’ve affected my current salary. I feel jipped.&nbsp;It’s time to debunk these myths once and for all.

Did you negotiate your salary? New York City, NY📍#salarytransparentstreet

Key points:<ul><li>Negotiation myths keep workers overworked and underpaid, holding them back from years of additional earnings and wealth building.</li><li>Salary negotiation is a normal part of any hiring process.</li><li>Negotiating pay is a professional occurrence and demonstrates your value to the company. Especially when you come armed with your market rate.</li><li>Employers expect negotiations and are prepared for them. You should be too.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>Myth #1: You’ll lose a job offer by negotiating salary.</h2>Why the myth exists:Thinking you might <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/can-you-lose-a-job-offer-by-negotiating-salary">lose a job offer because you negotiated</a> is a common occurrence. Especially when you don’t have much experience negotiating. This myth arises from not having much experience negotiating and the fear of being seen as overly demanding.&nbsp;Debunking the myth:It isn’t a part of normal business operations to pull a job offer when a candidate negotiates, and could indicate a poor company culture.&nbsp;Negotiating salary is a common and expected part of the job offer process. Employers typically anticipate some level of negotiation when thinking about their budget for the position.&nbsp;<h2>Myth #2: You shouldn’t talk about pay too early in the interview process.</h2>Why the myth exists:This myth often stems from concerns about appearing overly focused on compensation rather than the job itself. Additionally, there may be a fear of pricing oneself out of consideration or creating an awkward conversation.Debunking the myth:

Discussing pay early in an interview process can actually benefit both parties. Many employers will even ask about salary expectations as a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/job-interview-questions-and-answers">job interview question</a>. It ensures alignment on salary expectations and avoids wasting time if there's a mismatch. It also demonstrates pay transparency and helps establish trust between the candidate and employer.Not knowing your market rate can put you at a disadvantage when interviewing for different jobs. You’ll need to do market research to make sure you’re getting paid fairly before moving forward in any hiring process. Use our <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">free Market Research Guide</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a> to help you bring up pay sooner rather than later.<h2>Myth #3: You shouldn’t ask for more money when the position already has a higher salary than your last job.</h2>Why the myth exists:Some individuals may believe that since the salary is already higher than their previous job, they shouldn’t push for more. The same thing applies when asking for a raise. They may fear that the employer would see them as entitled and greedy.&nbsp;Debunking the myth:Your worth is not solely determined by your previous salary. Asking for more is a common and reasonable practice, especially if the new role involves more responsibilities.&nbsp;It doesn’t matter how much of a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying job</a> it is. Employers understand that candidates seek fair compensation based on their skills and the market value of the position.&nbsp;<h2>Myth #4: Only your salary is negotiable.</h2>Why the myth exists:Even though salary negotiations take center stage during job offers, money isn’t the only thing on the table. Many candidates may not realize that you can also <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiate benefits</a> and perks.Debunking the myth:Employers often have flexibility in various components of the compensation package beyond just salary. Benefits like health insurance, vacation time, and professional development opportunities can all be subject to negotiation. Considering these factors holistically allows you to maximize your overall compensation and job satisfaction.

<h2>Myth #5: Negotiating is rude.</h2>Why the myth exists:There are cultural and societal norms that discourage discussions about money or perceived discomfort with assertiveness in negotiations. Some may fear that negotiating could be seen as ungrateful and hurt their chances of getting along with the employer. For instance, gender stereotypes may negatively affect negotiations. Even though research shows that <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/gender-and-negotiation">women negotiate just as much as men do</a>, they may have entirely different experiences.&nbsp;Debunking the myth:Negotiating is a part of a professional hiring process and is far from rude. It's a crucial step in ensuring a mutually beneficial employment agreement. Employers anticipate negotiation and often respect candidates who advocate for themselves professionally.<h2>Myth #6: You should accept a low salary just because you’re younger.</h2>Why the myth exists:Younger individuals may feel pressure to accept lower salaries due to limited experience or the assumption that they should be grateful for any opportunity.Debunking the myth:Your age does not dictate your worth or what you deserve in terms of compensation. It's your skills, qualifications, and the contributions that matter. Accepting a low salary solely based on age perpetuates unfair compensation practices and undermines your value in the workforce.

Plus, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-discrimination">pay discrimination</a> is illegal. Companies can’t discriminate against you based on your age, or anything else. Additionally, there are organized groups such as unions that exist for some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">highest-paying trade jobs </a>that can help fight pay discrimination and negotiate on your behalf.<h2>Myth #7: You have to tell them your past salaries if they ask.</h2>Why the myth exists:There are historical hiring practices where employers commonly asked for past salary information as part of the hiring process. Some candidates may believe they are obligated to disclose this information to proceed with the application or negotiation process.Debunking the myth:You are not legally obligated to disclose your past salary to potential employers, and in many states, there are <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> that prohibit employers from asking for this information.&nbsp;Revealing past salaries can perpetuate wage gaps and undermine your ability to negotiate based on your qualifications and the market value of the position. Instead, focus on discussing your salary expectations and the value you bring to the role.<h2>Myth #8: You shouldn’t negotiate higher than the posted salary range.</h2>Why the myth exists:This myth may arise from concerns about overstepping boundaries or appearing unrealistic in negotiations. Some may believe that the posted salary range represents a firm limit set by the employer and that negotiating beyond it is not acceptable.Debunking the myth:The posted salary range is often a starting point for negotiation rather than a strict boundary. Employers typically have some flexibility in adjusting salary offers, and also provide salary ranges. Negotiating higher than the posted range is not uncommon, especially if you can demonstrate the value you bring.

<h2>Myth #9: Rejecting an offer will ruin future opportunities.</h2>Why the myth exists:It’s normal to be scared of burning bridges in your career. No one wants to be perceived as ungrateful or difficult to work with. Candidates may worry that turning down a job offer from a particular company could negatively impact their chances of securing future opportunities with that organization or within the same industry.Debunking the myth:Rejecting a job offer is a common occurrence and is unlikely to permanently damage your professional reputation or future prospects. While it's essential to handle the situation respectfully and professionally, employers understand that candidates may have valid reasons for declining an offer.

<h2>Approaching Negotiations With Clarity and Confidence</h2>Anytime a negotiation myth pops into your head, a great way to help debunk it is to talk about it. You aren’t the only one who has these doubts. Start <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">discussions with coworkers</a> and friends about salary, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">how to ask for a raise</a>, and your negotiation fears.&nbsp;Being transparent about our salaries helps to face these myths head on. <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/the-importance-of-salary-transparency">Pay transparency</a> arms us with the knowledge and tools to not only increase our income, but also help us understand our overall value as job candidates.&nbsp;Remember that negotiating is another way that you’re demonstrating your value. If you don’t value yourself in your career, who will?&nbsp;Want to join the movement? Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!If this guide helps you improve your negotiation skills, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.comFor more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

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9 Salary Negotiation Myths Debunked

It's perfectly normal to ask for a pay bump, especially if you've taken on more duties, gained more experience, or if your salary needs to be adjusted to match the market. But many don't know how to ask for a raise to begin with.According to a <a href="https://www.onepoll.us/the-average-american-employee-hasnt-received-a-raise-in-three-years/">survey by OnePoll</a>, the average American hasn’t received a raise in 3 years. Those who have, received an average of 3% yearly – which doesn’t even keep up with inflation.

Don’t let your fear of asking for a raise hold you back from earning more. It isn’t like you’re asking for a favor. Raises are how employers show recognition and make sure their employees are paid fairly as their responsibilities increase. They want to retain good talent and talent usually sticks around with a <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying job</a>.Asking for a raise is similar to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiating a salary offer</a>. There are several things to consider and steps to follow. In this article, we’ll dig into how to ask for a raise, when to do it, and what to say.Key Points:<ul><li>It’s normal to ask for a raise. You won’t get fired for it.</li><li>Know when to ask for a raise and time it wisely. The best time tends to be before employee review cycles.</li><li>Be polite when asking for a raise. Negotiations aren’t fights, they’re discussions with compromises.&nbsp;</li><li>Do market research to know how much to ask for using our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a>.</li><li>Build a “brag sheet” of your responsibilities and accomplishments to back up your raise request.</li><li>Know what to say (and what to not say) when discussing a raise with your manager.</li><li>Draft a rough script of what to say during the meeting and practice it with another person.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>1. Know when to ask for a raise.</h2>When you ask for a raise matters a lot. Timing is crucial, considering budget fluctuations, performance evaluations, and the company's raise schedule. If you're new, it's best to wait at least six months before bringing up a raise.

Before asking, think about the current financial health of the company and the best times of the year to ask. Employers usually hold annual or quarterly reviews with their employees, and if you have one approaching then your employer may already be preparing for a raise discussion.Employee reviews may have set raises the company gives out depending on if the employee gets “meets expectations” or “above expectations” such as 3%, 4%, 5%, and so on depending on your company’s budget. Know how to handle these discussions to negotiate a higher raise.&nbsp;For instance, if you receive a satisfactory review that only comes with a 3% raise, use your accomplishments and any recent increases of responsibility to push for more. If available, refer to the company's and team's business objectives for the year and show your manager a few ways you've met or exceeded expectations for those objectives.Another good time of the year to ask for a raise is the end of the fiscal year, which is a 12-month accounting period in which budgets are set, including salary adjustments such as raises. It may or may not align with the calendar year, so you will have to check what those dates are at your job.However, you don’t have to wait for employee reviews or a specific time of the year to ask for a raise. You should mention it frequently and check in on your goals to meet the expectations of a raise on a quarterly basis.<h2>2. How much of a raise should I ask for?</h2>When determining how much to ask for, consider your performance, achievements, and market value. It's often recommended to request a raise in the range of 5% to 15% of your current salary, but the specific amount will depend on your individual circumstances, your market rate, and the overall context of the request.&nbsp;If you don’t know your market rate, use our free<a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47"> Market Research Guide</a> to calculate what that is. This involves researching typical salary ranges for your position, level of experience, location, and other factors. Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> can help you with that part. &nbsp;

Underpaid? Here’s how to find your market rate using pay transparency laws! #salarytransparentstreet

Other tools to use for salary research include Glassdoor and Payscale. Once you find your market rate, adjust for your experience, role, and responsibilities and be prepared to present that data as you negotiate your salary.You can also <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">discuss salary with coworkers</a> about their experience with negotiating raises at the company so you know what to expect. Thanks to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> across the United States, this is totally legal and your employer can’t retaliate against you for doing so.<h2>3. How to Set Up The Meeting With Your Manager</h2>It's important to be polite and professional in your approach when setting up a meeting with your manager to discuss a potential raise. Start by sending an email to schedule the meeting, clearly stating the purpose and desired outcome.&nbsp;Express your appreciation for their time and offer flexibility in scheduling. Provide a brief overview of the topics you'd like to discuss, including your performance, achievements, and reasons for requesting a raise. Don’t forget to schedule the meeting at a time when your manager is likely to be available and when you can have a focused and uninterrupted conversation.<h2>4. How to Ask For a Raise via Email: Template &amp; Example</h2>See below for an email template to use for your raise request, along with an example email using a real-life scenario with the position title of Digital Marketing Analyst.

Email template:Subject: Request for Salary ReviewDear [Manager's Name],I hope you’re doing well! I am extremely thankful for having the opportunity to learn and grow in my role as a [Position Title] at [Company Name]. I am proud of the work I’ve been able to contribute along with the team. As I continue to grow in my role and acquire new skills and responsibilities, I would like to take the time to discuss my performance and contributions, and request a salary review.Over the past [time period], I’ve had the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities and projects, such as [name 1 new responsibility] and [name 1 big project that you recently completed]. I believe that my efforts have contributed positively to the team and our company's goals.I’ve taken the initiative to research industry standards for my position, and based on my findings, I would like to request a salary adjustment to align with market rates. I am confident that my skills, experience, and achievements warrant this adjustment.I have outlined some key points below to support my request:<ul><li>Accomplishments: Highlight specific achievements and projects you have successfully completed.</li><li>Additional Responsibilities: Describe any additional tasks or duties you have taken on since your last salary review.</li><li>Market Research: Provide data or references to support your claim that your current salary is below market standards for your role.</li></ul>Could we schedule a meeting within the next few weeks to discuss this further? I understand your time is limited, so let me know which week works the best for you and I can find a time on the calendar that works best for the both of us. I am also willing to provide any additional information or documentation you may require.&nbsp;Thank you for considering my request and I look forward to our meeting.Sincerely,[Your Name]

Real-Life Email Example:Subject: Request for Salary ReviewDear Linda,I hope you’re doing well! I am extremely thankful for having the opportunity to learn and grow in my role as a Digital Marketing Analyst at ABC Company. I am proud of the work I’ve been able to contribute, along with the team. As I continue to grow in my role and acquire new skills and responsibilities, I would like to take the time to discuss my performance and contributions, and request a salary review.Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to take on additional responsibilities and projects, such as implementing a new social media advertising strategy and leading the development of our content marketing calendar. I believe that my efforts have contributed positively to the team and our company's goals.I’ve taken the initiative to research industry standards for my position, and based on my findings, I would like to request a salary adjustment to align with market rates. I am confident that my skills, experience, and achievements warrant this adjustment.I have outlined some key points below to support my request:<ul><li>Accomplishments: Successfully increased website traffic by 30% through SEO optimization and content marketing initiatives.</li><li>Additional Responsibilities: Took on an additional role of managing our influencer marketing partnerships, resulting in a 25% increase in brand visibility and engagement.</li><li>Market Research: According to recent data from industry reports and job postings, the average salary for Digital Marketing Analysts with similar experience and qualifications is $80,000.</li></ul>Could we schedule a meeting within the next few weeks to discuss this further? I understand your time is limited, so let me know which week works the best for you and I can find a time on the calendar that works best for the both of us. I am also willing to provide any additional information or documentation you may require.Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to our meeting.Sincerely,Stephanie<h2>5. Prepare for the meeting.</h2>

Before your meeting with your manager, refer to the accomplishments, additional responsibilities, and market research that you included in your email. Then, expand on any other accomplishments that weren’t mentioned.&nbsp;A great way to do this is to create a brag sheet that includes all your “wins”. It’s best to note these throughout the year on a spreadsheet or in your notes app on your phone. But if you haven’t been doing that, go through your old emails and past projects (and their results) to gather what you’ve done.&nbsp;It’s also helpful to look for emails with testimonials from colleagues and management praising you. Save any emails with praise to a specific folder in Outlook for easy retrieval.From there, think about what you’ll say in the meeting and how to say it.<h2>6. Draft a rough script and practice, practice, practice.</h2>Another way to prepare for the meeting with your manager is to create a conversational script of what you want to say and how you’ll say it.&nbsp;The script may go something like this:Employee: Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, [Manager's Name]. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss my performance and potential salary adjustments.Manager: Of course, [Your Name]. What specifically did you want to discuss regarding your performance and compensation?Employee: Over the past year, I've taken on additional responsibilities and projects, such as [mention specific examples]. I believe these contributions have positively impacted our team and the company's goals. Considering industry standards, similar positions recently posted on the company’s website, my experience, skills, &amp; market rate, I believe a salary of [$X] makes the most sense moving forward.Manager: I see. Your contributions have definitely been valuable to the team. Let me look into the salary data you've provided and consider how it aligns with our budget and company policies.Employee: I understand and look forward to your response.Manager: Thank you for your understanding. Let me review the information you've provided and follow up with you soon.Employee: Thank you, [Manager's Name]. I appreciate your time and support.This conversation may differ depending on your unique situation and why you’re asking for a raise. To build confidence as you prepare, rehearse with another person to get acclimated to how the conversation may flow. Recording yourself to note your body language and speech patterns can also be a helpful way to prepare.For more scripts to use when negotiating salary, raises, and benefits, use our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a>.<h2>7. Crush the meeting.</h2>

Come into the meeting with an open mind. You’ll have better luck negotiating if you’re clear and direct without being defensive. Negotiations aren’t fights, they’re discussions.Think of why your manager would want to give you a raise. How long have you been there? How have your responsibilities increased or changed since you were hired? When your job description changes, your pay should reflect that. All of these factors should be considered during this conversation.This is where you present your accomplishments and explain their business value. This is basically anything you’ve contributed that you can show how it positively affected the business (use that brag sheet!).&nbsp;For example, one of your accomplishments could be: “I’ve been leading several projects to correct website defects, which resulted in an increase in website traffic that eventually led to more product purchases. In these projects, I am taking on additional responsibilities that would normally be under a more senior position.” This shows how your contributions directly affected their profits&nbsp;<h2>8. What happens if the answer is “no”?</h2>The worst thing they can say is no. Right? But, what do you do when your request is rejected? If you don’t get the raise you hoped for, you might be able to compromise with your employer and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiate for additional benefits</a> like flexwork and more vacation time.If the answer is something along the lines of a “maybe”, be patient because it’s likely your manager has to revisit the team’s budget or get approval for your request.&nbsp;<h2>9. Send a follow up email after the meeting thanking your manager for their time.</h2>Your manager's time is probably limited and there are many things they might forget throughout the work day. Sending a followup email after the meeting that thanks them for their time and recaps key points will keep your request on the top of their mind.

Include your accomplishments in key points to make it easier for your manager if they have to get approval. Also link to your market research data that you referred to in the meeting.&nbsp; Managers love when their employees help make their job easier in ways like this.<h2>What Not to Say When Asking for a Pay Raise</h2>Now that we’ve covered all the things that you should say when asking for a raise, let’s cover what NOT to say.Avoid any of these statements if you want your raise request to be taken seriously:<ul><li>"I've been here longer than most people, so I should get a raise."</li><li>“I deserve a raise.”</li><li>"I heard [colleague's name] got a raise, so I should too."</li><li>"I'm struggling financially and need more money."</li><li>"I'll quit if I don't get a raise."</li><li>"I know the company is doing well financially, so why haven't I received a raise yet?"</li></ul><h2>Why You Should Always Negotiate</h2>Asking for a raise can sometimes mean the difference between a $85k and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/100k-salary-cities">$100k salary</a>. Imagine what you could do with that money!&nbsp;Negotiations are nothing to be scared of. These are standard procedures with employers, so make good use of them.

This is why <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/the-importance-of-salary-transparency">salary transparency is so important</a>. It gives you both the data and confidence to navigate negotiations, and get paid what you deserve.&nbsp;Want to join the movement? Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!That wraps it up for this week. Until next time, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!If this guide helps you to get a raise, let us know! Send us an email ➡️ <a href="mailto:hello@salarytransparentstreet.com">hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</a>For more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Need help negotiating your salary? Download our free <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/free-salary-negotiation-guide">Salary Negotiation Guide</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!</li><li>Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!</li></ul>

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How to Ask for a Raise (With Examples and Scripts)

Hitting the six-figure salary mark is a big deal. In 2023, individuals earning $100,000 sat at the <a href="https://dqydj.com/income-percentile-calculator/">81st percentile</a> of all U.S. earners.&nbsp;But how does making $100K change your lifestyle? In a <a href="https://smartasset.com/data-studies/dd-what-100000-is-worth-2023">2023 study</a>, SmartAsset calculated take-home paychecks by removing state, federal, and local taxes from a $100,000 salary, then adjusted the remainder based on each city's relative cost of living – taking into account housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and miscellaneous goods and services.&nbsp;What they found was that a six-figure lifestyle can look very different…depending on where you live. Let’s get into it.

Key points:<ul><li>Each city’s cost of living depends on several factors such as taxes, housing, and transportation.</li><li>Don’t take $100,000 salaries at face value. Your salary is different from your take-home pay.</li><li>Browse the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs</a> (including <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trade jobs</a>) on our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">salary database</a>.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>Least Expensive Cities in the U.S.</h2>The city that will give you the most bang for your buck is Memphis, Tennessee. This is where a six-figure earner would have the equivalent of $86,444 left after taxes. But why? Tennessee has no state income taxes and a low <a href="https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/cost-of-living-index-by-state">cost of living</a> of 13.8% below the national average.Texas is another location with a low cost of living. It’s home to seven out of the top 10 most affordable cities in the U.S. A $100,000 salary on average nets you $77,885 after taxes across the 10 Texas cities.

NEW STATE! ⭐️ Austin, TX📍#salarytransparentstreet

<h2>Most Expensive Cities in the U.S.</h2>For the most expensive cities, New York delivers the toughest blow. It’s ranked dead last in affordability, with a $100,000 salary in the Big Apple amounting to just $35,791 when you factor in taxes and cost of living.Combined federal, state, and local taxes nab about 41% of your paycheck, and the cost of living is 83.6% higher than the national average.

California is another one that is right up there with New York. It has five of the 10 priciest cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, and Oakland.&nbsp;To actually take home $100K a year, you’d need to see a salary of <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/300k-100k-nyc-heres-taxes-152900522.html">over $300,000+</a> in more expensive cities like New York, Honolulu, or San Francisco. But to take home $100K in Memphis or El Paso? That salary is much lower and falls just under $120,000.<h2>What does it mean for you?&nbsp;</h2>Do your research. When comparing jobs in different cities, don’t take the salary at face value. Taxes differ state to state, which means that your take-home pay differs too. Factor in the cost of living (average cost of housing, transportation, and goods and services), and that salary can mean very different lifestyles in different cities.&nbsp;Keep in mind that jobs based in the best-bang-for-your-buck cities typically adjust salaries to their affordability. In the Memphis metro area, for instance, the median income is $55,000 per year. This is significantly lower than the national median of nearly $70,000.At the end of the day, remember that your salary is just a means to build the life you want to live. If you’re location-agnostic and dream of buying a home, you may want to consider an opportunity in Texas. But if you’ve always dreamed of living in New York City, even the sweetest take-home pay in Memphis won’t satisfy you.<h2>What if you already live in one of the least affordable cities?&nbsp;</h2>No, you don’t need to pack your bags and ship off to Tennessee. You don’t have to move away from a place you love just because it’s expensive. Especially if it’s not the type of place you’ll thrive.

There are a few things you can do to reduce your personal cost of living, no matter your location.&nbsp;Max out your retirement accounts. This one’s a double-whammy. Save more for retirement while cutting your tax bill for the current year. As of 2023, the IRS allows up to $22,500 in employee contributions to a 401(k) or a similar workplace plan and $6,500 to an IRA. When you contribute pre-tax, you reduce your taxable income — AKA pay less in taxes.Avoid lifestyle creep. Living in a more expensive city can cause “lifestyle creep.” Things that once seemed like luxuries are now part of your everyday lifestyle. You find yourself ditching your affordable gym to join your friends in the fancier one with a sauna or catching up with friends over a Michelin-star restaurant meal rather than a home-cooked one…you get it. You deserve to intentionally uplevel your life as you earn more – but you don’t want to accidentally fall into lifestyle creep.

The antidote to lifestyle creep? Budgeting. Think about what you value and where you want your money to go—then make sure it’s actually going there. Build out a budget for the biggest spending buckets in your life, like food, rent, entertainment, and transportation, then stick to that budget. Most importantly, base those numbers on your gross income (post-tax earnings) instead of your salary.<h2>How to Increase Your Salary to Accommodate High Cost-of-Living Locations</h2>When you can’t find any more ways to decrease your own cost of living, check if you’re being paid fairly to begin with. <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!If you find that you aren’t being paid fairly, look for ways to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiate a higher salary</a> or <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">ask for a raise at work</a>.

Don’t forget about negotiating for things like sign-on bonuses, more paid time off, and health benefits. When you <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">negotiate benefits</a> for a new job along with your salary, you may have the chance to decrease your cost of living with benefits like relocation assistance, remote work, and transportation reimbursements. Need some help? Use our free list of <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a>.Want to learn more about increasing your income while building a fulfilling career? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Read our weekly Salary Transparent Street newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!For more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!&nbsp;</li><li>Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</li></ul>

desktop featured image with green background, city graphic, and title text that reads how far $100k goes in different cities

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What a $100K Salary is Worth in Different U.S. Cities

Imagine this: There are two coworkers who share the exact same role, experience, skills, and responsibilities. They’re both dedicated, driven, positive, and collaborative. But one makes $10,000 less than the other.&nbsp;

For many – perhaps even you – this isn’t a hypothetical situation. It’s the reality of pay discrimination (also referred to as wage discrimination). It doesn’t matter if you’re the employee or employer. Anyone can play a part in it, and many don’t even realize they’re doing it.&nbsp;To find out if you’re a victim of pay discrimination, you’ll need to first understand what pay discrimination is in its many shapes and sizes. Then join us in fighting the good fight – stopping pay discrimination once and for all.Key points:<ul><li>Pay discrimination is illegal but it still happens all the time.</li><li>You can be discriminated against based on your race, gender, ethnicity, and other demographic characteristics.</li><li>There is a long history of pay discrimination and the pay gap is shrinking, but we still have a ways to go.</li><li>You have several legal rights that can help you fight back.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>What is pay discrimination?</h2>Pay discrimination happens when employees are paid less than their equal counterparts on the basis of their race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, age, ability, or other demographic characteristics.&nbsp;It also affects more than just the impacted individual. Pay discrimination can perpetuate social and economic inequalities for generations.Pay discrimination isn’t just unfair. It’s illegal.<a href="https://www.eeoc.gov/history/equal-pay-act-1963#:~:text=To%20prohibit%20discrimination%20on%20account,production%20of%20goods%20for%20commerce.">The Equal Pay Act of 1963</a> prohibits employers from pay discrimination on the basis of sex. A not-so-fun fact is that when the act was passed, women workers were earning <a href="https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2022/demo/p60-276.html">only 59 cents</a> to mens’ dollar.

Since then, multiple laws have targeted pay discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, and age. Then in 2009, the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/senate-bill/181#:~:text=Lilly%20Ledbetter%20Fair%20Pay%20Act%20of%202009%20%2D%20Amends%20the%20Civil,individual%20is%20affected%20by%20application">Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act</a> clarified that all inequitable and discriminatory payments are illegal…period.A few states are taking things a step further with laws around pay transparency and wage history:<ul><li>California, New York, Colorado, Nevada, and Connecticut all prohibit employers from asking about salary history.</li><li>Want to learn if your state has any of these laws? Check out our complete list of <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws by state</a>, including progress on proposed bills on both a state and federal level.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Different Forms of Pay Discrimination</h2>There isn’t only one type of pay discrimination. There are several and some can even overlap.&nbsp;Here’s a rundown of the biggest forms of pay discrimination we’re fighting today 👇<h2>Gender Discrimination</h2>Today, women are participating in the labor market at near-record rates. The wage gap has significantly decreased but it hasn’t disappeared. And no, it isn’t because women aren’t negotiating – that’s a myth. When it comes to<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/gender-and-negotiation"> gender and negotiation</a>, women actually negotiate more than men.&nbsp;Women now earn <a href="https://nwlc.org/resource/the-wage-gap-robs-women-working-full-time-year-round-of-hundreds-of-thousands-of-dollars-over-a-lifetime/#">84 cents for every dollar</a> paid to a full-time working man. That adds up to nearly $10,000 less per year in median earnings. 🤯When women become moms, they’re either <a href="https://www2.census.gov/ces/wp/2017/CES-WP-17-68.pdf">less likely</a> to be hired and typically offered a lower salary than their male counterparts. On average, moms working full-time <a href="https://nwlc.org/resource/mothers-wage-gap/#:~:text=Among%20full%2Dtime%2C%20year%2D,month%20or%20%2418%2C000%20a%20year.">earn just 74 cents for every dollar</a> paid to a dad in the US.It only gets worse with age. In 2022, women ages 25 to 44 made 88% of what men their age made, while women 65 or older earned just <a href="https://www.americanprogress.org/article/5-facts-from-the-2022-wage-gap-data/">78%</a> of men their age.

There are a few potential reasons this pay gap exists. Women are underrepresented in <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">high-paying jobs</a> like managerial and <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2021/04/01/stem-jobs-see-uneven-progress-in-increasing-gender-racial-and-ethnic-diversity/">STEM occupations</a>, but they’re overrepresented in lower-paying jobs, like education and services.

Celebrating women in STEM this #womanshistorymonth! #salarytransparentstreet #stemcareers

But even when comparing apples-to-apples (AKA comparing the salaries of men and women in the exact same job), the wage gap exists…and that’s because of bias. A <a href="https://insights.som.yale.edu/insights/women-arent-promoted-because-managers-underestimate-their-potential">Yale School of Management study</a> found that women got higher performance ratings than men, but were consistently and incorrectly judged as having less leadership potential.What’s the big picture here? The cumulative cost of the gender pay gap to women has amounted to $61 trillion since 1967, the first year of available US Census Bureau data. That’s nearly 3x our country’s GDP.<h2>Racial Discrimination</h2>Over the past five years, the racial wage gap has been <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/19/briefing/juneteenth-racial-wage-gap.html">shrinking</a>. However in 2023, non-white workers in the U.S. experience large pay gaps compared to their white peers.&nbsp;For <a href="https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-23-106041">every dollar </a>paid to white, non-Hispanic men:<ul><li>Asian women are paid 97 cents.</li><li>White women are paid 79 cents.</li><li>Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander women are paid 66 cents.</li><li>Black or African American women are paid 63 cents.</li><li>Hispanic or Latino women are paid 58 cents.</li><li>American Indian or Alaska Native women are paid 58 cents.</li></ul>

Why is this happening? Racial minorities are overrepresented in <a href="https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat39.htm">lower-paying</a> jobs. Economic theorists often blame the racial pay gap on differences in education, experience, and the fact that Black workers are more likely to live in lower-wage Southern states. Yet, even when controlling for these factors, Black workers <a href="https://www.epi.org/unequalpower/publications/understanding-black-white-disparities-in-labor-market-outcomes/">earn 14.9%</a> less than white workers. Sounds like a bad case of employer bias.<h2>Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity Discrimination</h2><a href="https://www.hrc.org/resources/the-wage-gap-among-lgbtq-workers-in-the-united-states">36%</a> of LGBTQIA+ workers say they have experienced discrimination in the workplace. Overall, LGBTQIA+ workers earn about 90 cents for every dollar that straight and cisgender workers earn and are less likely to have access to health insurance and other <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-benefits">employer benefits</a>.

<h2>Age Discrimination</h2>More than 40% of workers over the age of 40 <a href="https://www.axios.com/2023/09/02/ageism-age-discrimination-statistics-america-2023-workplace#:~:text=More%20than%2040%25%20of%20workers%20over%20the%20age%20of%2040%20say%20they%27ve%20experienced%20age%20discrimination%20at%20work%20in%20the%20last%20three%20years%2C%20according%20to%20a%20recent%20AARP%20survey.">say</a> they've experienced age discrimination at work in the last three years. The role of bias is no secret here. Employers <a href="https://www.ziprecruiter.com/blog/despite-a-tight-labor-market-older-workers-cite-widespread-ageism/">admit</a> that they're looking for younger talent. 47% say they're worried about older workers' tech skills and 25% say they'd pick a 30-year-old over a 60-year-old – even if both candidates were equally qualified.<h2>Disability Discrimination</h2>Workers with disabilities earn <a href="https://disabilitycompendium.org/compendium/2020-annual-disability-statistics-compendium?page=10">84%</a> of what workers without disabilities earn. This is often about accessibility. Employers may not provide workers with disabilities the accommodations they need, like a wheelchair ramp or a screen reader.<h2>So, what can you do about it?</h2>Here are 3 simple steps you can take:&nbsp;<ol><li>Know your worth. Compare your salary to the market rate for your specific experience and position to identify discrepancies—which may be indicative of discrimination. Check out our <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">free market research guide</a> to find your market rate, then compare to our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>. Also look at what kind of policies your employer has about discrimination so you can identify any times they’ve been broken.</li><li>Ask for regular salary reviews. Salary reviews allow you to openly communicate with your employer, negotiate your salary, and make appropriate adjustments. Need help negotiating? We’ve got <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64c03066207ff6fa282b6bac?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F">a free guide</a> for that. Also check out our free list of <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/salary-negotiation-scripts">salary negotiation scripts</a>!</li><li>Vote! While recent legislation has improved salary transparency and pay equality, there’s still progress to be made. <a href="https://www.vote.org/">Know the candidates on your local ballot</a> and vote!</li></ol>

<h2>How do I know if I’m a victim of wage discrimination?</h2>Even after doing everything you can to advocate for yourself, you may still fall victim to pay discrimination.&nbsp;Here’s what you can do:<ol><li>Know the policies. Thanks to the <a href="https://www.worker.gov/discussion-of-pay/">National Labor Relations Act</a>, it is your legal right to <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">talk about pay</a> with your employer, without fear of retaliation. Your employer may have additional policies for compensation, complaints, promotions, and/or discrimination claims. Review these too.</li><li>Gather any “proof,” including your market rate, pay stubs, info about your past experience, your coworkers’ pay and experience, and job descriptions. Make sure to take notes from any meetings, emails, or other communications related to your pay.</li><li>Seek internal support. Request a meeting with your boss or HR to present the issue and walk through your proof. Document the date you met and who was present, detail what you discussed during the meeting, explain how you found out about the pay discrepancy and the proof you presented, and communicate exactly how your boss or HR rep responded. After you meet, send a follow-up email to confirm what happened during the conversation.&nbsp;</li><li>Find a group. If you’re a member of a union, ask about filing a grievance or find out whether pay discrimination is covered in your collective bargaining agreement. This is a common occurrence in many <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-trade-jobs">high-paying trade jobs</a>. And if you’re not part of a union? Team up with your coworkers to start a petition or organize a company-wide meeting.</li><li>File a complaint with the EEOC or your state’s enforcement agency. Call the <a href="https://www.eeoc.gov/filing-charge-discrimination">US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission</a> hotline at 800-669-4000. If you don’t want to file a complaint, you can still speak with an EEOC counselor to learn more about your legal rights.</li><li>Speak with an attorney. Learn your legal rights before you move beyond internal complaints. <a href="https://www.equalrights.org/">Equal Rights Advocates</a> is a great resource. They offer free, confidential legal advice.</li></ol>Want to learn more about how pay discrimination shows up in everyday work-life? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Read our weekly Salary Transparent Street newsletter</a> to stay up to date on all things compensation, money, and getting paid what you’re worth.For more Salary Transparent Street resources:<ul><li>Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!</li><li>Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.</li><li>Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!</li><li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!&nbsp;</li><li>Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com</li></ul>

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Pay Discrimination 101: What It Is and How to Fight Back

In 2023, Salary Transparent Street made over $1 million in revenue. 🤯We made $1,043,740 to be exact – more than double what we made in 2022. Best of all? Our business grew while we got to do what we love: share <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/the-importance-of-salary-transparency">the importance of salary transparency</a> with the world.&nbsp;

For some context: There are some important things to note about the ways content creators make money…<ul><li>Unlike people with salaried roles, content creators have uncapped earning potential. As business owners, the more we work, the more money we make.&nbsp;</li><li>We have business expenses, so our paychecks are not our revenue. Our take-home pay is a fraction of our gross revenue.&nbsp;</li><li>Because there are many different ways to make and spend money as a creator, creators’ earnings can vary a ton (even on the same platforms with the same audience size).</li></ul>In the spirit of transparency, we’re sharing exactly 1) how we got to $1 million, and 2) where it all goes. Let’s break it down →<h2>How We Made $1 Million</h2>

We Made $1M in 2023 From Street Interviews | Salary Transparent Street

<h2>1. Brand Partnerships</h2>Brand partnerships are sponsored content – AKA when a brand we love pays us to make content. You’ll know it when you see it. This content must be labeled as a “paid partnership” or have #ad or #partner in the caption of our videos.The deets: At a total of $1,012,329, brand partnerships made up 96% of Salary Transparent Street’s 2023 revenue. For full transparency of what we charge for partnerships, the market rate for videos on Salary Transparent Street’s channels is between $10,000 and $15,000. We prioritize long-term partnerships, which means that we work with the same partners for a set number of deliverables each month — and at our rate, that adds up quickly.<h2>2. Ad Revenue</h2>We get payouts from the platforms we publish content on including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. These platforms serve ads alongside our content, like when YouTube plays ads before and during videos, and they pay creators like us for bringing eyeballs to their ads. While each platform <a href="https://www.epidemicsound.com/blog/which-social-media-platform-pays-the-most/">pays creators differently</a>, their payouts are all correlated to views. So just by watching our content, you helped grow our business! 💚

The deets: Ad revenue made up 3% of our total revenue, which comes out to $30,265. We don’t take it for granted either. That’s more than half of the <a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/average-salary-by-state/">average US salary</a>.&nbsp;<h2>3. Miscellaneous</h2>Merch sales, speaking engagements, and social media consulting made up the remaining 1% of our revenue.<h2>Where the Money Goes (Our Expenses)</h2><h2>1. Our Salaries</h2>This year, I took home $125,000 as a full-time CEO, while our incredible part-time cameraman (and my husband!) James took home $65,000.&nbsp;<h2>2. Paying Contractors and Part-Time Workers</h2>We worked with a social media manager, assistant, accountant, lawyer, and blog writer this year. In total, outsourcing this work cost us $361,058. &nbsp;

<h2>3. Website Expenses</h2>We work with an awesome website development team to keep our website up and running (with amazing resources like our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">salary database</a>). That cost us $215,770.<h2>4. Marketing Expenses</h2>This year, we did a full brand redesign, built a media kit, and worked with an agency to produce our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">newsletter</a>. This cost $132,158.<h2>5. Travel Expenses</h2>In 2023, we traveled to 20 different states and Canada to spread transparency! Plane tickets, hotels, and rental cars added up to $37,039.<h2>6. General Expenses and Operations</h2>From platform subscriptions to insurance to film equipment, we spent $27,022 to keep everything operating smoothly behind the scenes.<h2>What It Means to Us</h2>Earning $1M is cool and all (okay, I admit it—it’s insane). However, at the end of the day, our biggest accomplishments in 2023 weren’t tied to a number at all.In that same year, we testified in support of Washington, DC’s <a href="https://news.bloomberglaw.com/daily-labor-report/d-c-to-require-pay-range-in-job-ads-ban-salary-history-queries">Pay Range Act</a> (which passed and is going into effect in June 2024!), spoke with multiple state representatives about <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> and free speech legislation, gave back to our community through cash giveaways, and so much more.

In 2024, we hope to double our revenue again (that’d be wild, right?). More importantly, we want to share more valuable content and increase our charitable pool. I have a pretty good feeling we’ll reach our goals and then some – and it’s all thanks to your support. 💚Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com &nbsp;

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How We Made $1M From Street Interviews

You don’t have to work in a corporate office to increase your salary. High paying trade jobs are great career options that don’t require a 4-year degree, are increasing in demand, and many have the potential to earn six figures as your seniority grows.&nbsp;

However, breaking into the highest-paying trade jobs may require some schooling or work experience. Several trades have low barriers of entry where you can even get paid to learn with an apprenticeship or other on-the-job training options. Other education requirements may include trade schools, associates degrees, certifications, or licenses.&nbsp;But what actually qualifies as a trade job?Key points:<ul><li>There are trade jobs that pay over $60,000 and have low barriers of entry.</li><li>The highest-paying trade jobs are aircraft mechanics, sonographers, IT system administrators, and occupational therapy assistants.&nbsp;</li><li>Several of the highest-paying trades don't require a college degree, but may require certifications, licenses, or trade school programs.</li><li>Entry-level trade workers can gain experience through paid apprenticeships or other on-the-job training options.&nbsp;</li><li>Well-paid trades that don't require experience but provide on-the-job training include carpenters, tattoo artists, and electricians.</li><li>Trades that provide paid apprenticeships include plumbers and carpenters.</li><li>Several trade workers, such as electricians and ironworkers, are protected by unions which provide higher pay with better benefits than non-union workers.&nbsp;</li><li>Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> has access to more high-paying trade job titles.</li></ul>

&nbsp;<h2>What are skilled trade jobs?</h2>Trade jobs are careers that require specialized training, involve working with one's hands, and typically focus on a specific skill or craft. They exist in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, and maintenance. There are also lesser-known careers that qualify as trade jobs, such as medical trades, cosmetic trades, and technical trades.&nbsp;Several trade jobs are also union jobs. Union jobs are positions in which workers are represented by a labor union, which is an organized group that <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/negotiate-salary-offer">negotiates wages</a>, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/how-to-ask-for-a-raise">pay raises</a>, benefits, and working conditions on behalf of its members. Because of this, they tend to be some of the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree">highest-paying jobs</a>.

According to <a href="https://www.unionplus.org/page/benefits-union-membership">Union Plus</a>, Union workers make 30% more than non-union workers and 92% of union workers have job-related health coverage versus 68% of non-union workers. Many also have guaranteed pensions, which is extremely rare in today’s job market and most often seen in <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/highest-paying-government-jobs">high-paying government jobs</a>.

How Much Do Trade Workers Really Make? Earnings Revealed at LaborFest

<h2>18 Highest-Paying Trade Jobs With Increasing Demand (and Low Barriers of Entry)</h2>Use this list of 18 top-paying trade jobs in demand for 2024 and their requirements to start thinking about next steps to take in your career.&nbsp;This list was put together using salary information from <a href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/index.htm">Glassdoor</a>, our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>, and the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/">Occupational Outlook Handbook</a> from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.&nbsp;All jobs below are listed from highest to lowest salaries. Keep in mind that the numbers below may change depending on your location. You may notice that the higher paying trades may include more education requirements such as completing accredited programs and obtaining licenses, but keep in mind that those may change depending on the company and state.Our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> is another great resource for salary reporting. Thankfully, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/pay-transparency-laws">pay transparency laws</a> and the salary transparency movement has allowed for easy access to that salary information.

Trade Job Salaries | Salary Transparent Street Compilation

<h2>1. Aircraft Mechanic/Technician</h2>Aircraft mechanics are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting aircraft to ensure they are safe to fly. They work with engines, landing gear, brakes, electrical systems, and other mechanisms for both airplanes and helicopters. They also perform both structural and avionics maintenance while making sure they stay compliant with regulations.Precision is extremely important in aircraft maintenance, as even the smallest of errors can have serious consequences. Aircraft mechanics must have keen attention to detail to ensure that all repairs and inspections are carried out correctly.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and certification from a <a href="https://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airline_certification/amts">Part 147 FAA-approved</a> aviation maintenance technician school.Work experience required: NoneMedian annual salary: $105,596Total potential pay: $79,000 - $220,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $220,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 4%<h2>2. Sonographer</h2>A sonographer is a medical trade worker who uses ultrasound technology to create images of internal organs, tissues, and blood flow patterns within the body. These images, called sonograms or ultrasounds, help physicians diagnose and monitor medical conditions in patients.Sonographers must have the ability to understand how to use ultrasound technology and equipment, as well as good communication skills to convey information clearly when discussing images with the healthcare team.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and depending on the company and state, completion of an accredited sonography program or sonography certification. License requirements vary by state.Work experience required: Some companies may require work experience but clinical hours from certificate programs normally fit requirements.Median annual salary: $98,732Total potential pay: $77,000 - $130,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $130,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 10%<h2>3. IT System Administrator</h2>

How much does a #SystemsAdministrator make?📍Detroit, MI #salarytransparentstreet

System administrators are technical trade workers that are responsible for managing and maintaining a company’s computer systems, networks, and infrastructure.This trade requires a high level of technical proficiency and some programming skills to be able to work with different types of hardware and software. They should also possess problem-solving skills for troubleshooting and reverse engineering problems. These can be learned through specific programs, online courses, or on the job.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. Some companies will hire without a degree if there is some work experience such as working in a help desk IT support role or past freelance experience. Other companies may require an associate's degree, completion of a technical trade program, or specific certifications for specialists.Work experience required: It depends on the company and role. Typically no prior experience is required when education qualifications are fulfilled.Median annual salary: $90,396Total potential pay: $71,000 - $127,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $127,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%<h2>4. Occupational Therapy Assistant</h2>

Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) work under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists to provide rehabilitative services to individuals with physical, developmental, or emotional challenges. Their role is to help patients live independently through developing goals and improving their ability to perform daily tasks and activities.Due to their close interaction with people, they must possess genuine empathy and compassion along with strong communication and interpersonal skills.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and completion of an accredited occupational therapy assistant program, certification, and license. Follow the steps lined out by the <a href="https://www.aota.org/career/state-licensure/learn-the-steps-to-licensure">American Occupational Therapy Association</a>.Work experience required: There are some fieldwork requirements, but those are already required when applying for a license.Median annual salary: $86,455Total potential pay: $50,000 - $111,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $54,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 23%<h2>5. Radiology Technician</h2>Working as a radiology technician is another medical trade in which they perform diagnostic imaging procedures to help physicians treat their patients. They operate imaging equipment such as X-ray machines, computed tomography (CT) scanners, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, and fluoroscopy equipment to produce images of the inside of the body.They must possess radiation safety knowledge and math skills to calculate the right amount of radiation emitted in imaging procedures. Technical skills are also required to operate imaging equipment and technology.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and completion of an accredited program. The <a href="http://www.jrcert.org/">Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology</a> (JRCERT) accredits programs in radiography. It depends on the state if licenses or certifications are required.&nbsp;Work experience required: NoneMedian annual salary: $85,861Total potential pay: $70,000 - $105,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $79,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%<h2>6. Web/Graphic Designer</h2>

How much does a self-employed #GraphicDesigner make in Chicago, IL📍? #salarytransparentstreet

Web and graphic designers are creative professionals responsible for designing visual elements for websites, digital media, print materials, and other marketing collateral. They usually work within design teams that work with different departments such as product, marketing, and technical teams for projects.&nbsp;Web and graphic designers must have both creative and technical skills to be able to use different software for crafting designs. As they become more experienced in their career, they can move on to other higher-paying roles like UX design.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. Some companies may require completion of a technical trade school program. But you may not need specific education credentials if you can demonstrate prior related work experience or project work.Work experience required: None but some companies may require internships or apprenticeships (which you can learn on the job). Portfolios of past work based on personal projects, school projects, or freelance projects can also be shown in the place of work experience.Median annual salary: $82,695Total potential pay: $65,000 - $115,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $115,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 16%<h2>7. Union Plumber Pipefitter</h2>

Union plumbers and pipefitters install and repair piping systems for homes, businesses, factories, and other places. They work with various materials, including copper, PVC, steel, and cast iron, to create piping systems for water supply, drainage, heating, and cooling.Skills required are mechanical skills for using different types of tools and maneuvering them precisely. Troubleshooting skills are also required to be able to quickly find and repair problems.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and an apprenticeship where they get paid while training on the job. License requirements depend on your state.Work experience required: NoneMedian annual salary: $82,313Total potential pay: $66,000 - $102,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $88,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%

#SeniorOperationsManager and #Plumber in Phoenix, AZ📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

<h2>8. Automotive Mechanic</h2>Automotive mechanics specialize in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They work in various settings, including dealerships and repair shops, and the work experience and education requirements may vary from shop-to-shop.Mechanics need to have a strong understanding of vehicle systems and components and stay updated on the latest automotive technology. They should know how to use a variety of tools and equipment to perform repairs and maintenance. Even though they may learn some of this from hands-on training during certification programs, they can continue to build their expertise through on-the-job training.&nbsp;Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. Although some mechanics may not be certified, most shops require certification from the <a href="http://www.ase.com/">National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence</a>.Work experience required: None&nbsp;Median annual salary: $81,409Total potential pay: $65,000 - $103,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $70,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%

#Mechanic in Portland, OR📍

<h2>9. Massage Therapist</h2>Massage therapists are healthcare professionals who use touch and manipulation techniques to provide therapeutic relief to clients. They work in a variety of settings, including spas, wellness centers, and medical offices.&nbsp;Important skills to have include the ability to evaluate the needs of their clients and recommend treatments. They must also be physically capable to apply pressure and manipulate muscles while administering massage therapy.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent and massage therapy education programs. Currently, <a href="https://www.abmp.com/practitioners/state-requirements#:~:text=Licensure%20is%20required%20in%20each,as%20a%20requirement%20for%20renewal.">45 states</a> require massage therapists to be licensed.Work experience required: None but some companies may require internships or apprenticeships (which you can learn on the job). Some companies like to see portfolios of past work based on personal projects, school projects, or freelance projects.&nbsp;Median annual salary: $75,542Total potential pay: $57,000 - $100,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $96,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 18%<h2>10. Tattoo Artist</h2>

How much does a #TattooArtist make? Eugene, OR📍#salarytransparentstreet

A tattoo artist creates permanent designs on the skin using tattooing techniques and equipment. They work in tattoo studios or shops, where they provide tattoo services to clients seeking personalized body art.Tattoo artists usually possess artistic talent, creativity and innovation, and technical tattooing skills. They must also pay close attention to detail when applying tattoos since they are permanent.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training through apprenticeships that lead to certification or a license.&nbsp;Work experience required: NoneMedian annual salary: $60,663Total potential pay: $49,000 - $76,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: N/A - If you’re a tattoo artist, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">add your salary</a>!Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 4%<h2>11. Union Electrician</h2>

#electrician in Washington, DC📍#salarytransparentstreet #paytransparency #tradejob

Union electricians are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. A few of their key duties include inspections, troubleshooting, making upgrades, reading blueprints, and following safety protocols.Good skills to have as an electrician include color vision to identify wires by color, critical thinking skills, and physical strength.&nbsp;Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and an apprenticeship where they get paid while training on the job. &nbsp;Work experience required: None&nbsp;Median annual salary: $70,000Total potential pay: $53,000 - $91,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $104,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%<h2>12. Nail Technician</h2>

How much does a #NailTech make? Eugene, OR📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency

Nail technicians specialize in providing nail care services to clients. Their primary focus is enhancing the appearance and health of clients' nails, hands, and feet. Their responsibilities include manicures, pedicures, nail art and design, and health and sanitation, among many others.&nbsp;Nail techs should have a high attention to detail, creative abilities, and customer service skills. Nail technicians who run their own salons must understand business principles to manage a salon and make it profitable.&nbsp;Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. State licensing requirements vary.Work experience required: NoneMedian annual salary: $68,398Total potential pay: $30,000 - $94,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $33,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 9%<h2>13. Hair Colorist</h2>

#Hairstylists in Atlanta, GA📍#salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #hairstylistjob

Hair colorists specialize in applying hair color treatments to enhance the look of their client’s hair. They use various coloring techniques and products to achieve desired hair color results. Responsibilities include consulting clients, hair color techniques, lightening hair, color correction, and general hair care and maintenance.&nbsp;Hair colorists should have a strong understanding of color theory to create hair color combinations that complement clients' features.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, completion of a state-approved cosmetology program, and state license. License requirements vary by state.Work experience required: None&nbsp;Median annual salary: $66,137Total potential pay: $50,000 - $89,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $70,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 9%<h2>14. Construction Worker</h2>Construction workers perform various duties around a construction site. They clean and prepare sites, load and unload materials, operate power tools, and assist other trade workers, such as carpenters and electricians. They’re not only involved in building, but also disassembling, and may be responsible for taking apart structures.Once you get started in construction, there are several other roles you can either pivot to or work on moving up to. These include roles like “Construction Equipment Operator”, “Construction Manager”, “Construction Project Manager”, “Construction Foreman”, and several other position titles.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent. Employers may require a safety certification that meets <a href="https://www.osha.gov/">Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)</a> guidelines.Work experience required: None. Many get paid while learning on the job. There are also apprenticeship programs available that may be sponsored by local unions or trade associations, but aren’t required.Median annual salary: $65,634Total potential pay: $49,000 - $89,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $60,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 4%

How much does a #constructionworker make in 📍Washington, DC?#salarytransparentstreet

<h2>15. Esthetician</h2>Estheticians are licensed professionals who specialize in providing skin care services to clients. They usually work in spas, salons, skincare clinics, or medical spas. Their responsibilities may include skincare analysis, facial treatments, and consultation, among many others.Skills used include skincare knowledge, hygiene and sanitation practices, and good communication skills to provide customer service.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, completion of a cosmetology or esthetician program, and state license. Licensing requirements vary by state.Work experience required: None&nbsp;Median annual salary: $64,139Total potential pay: $30,000 - $80,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $38,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 9%<h2>16. Union Carpenter</h2>

Carpenters work with wood and other materials to construct various structures and fixtures. Their work encompasses a wide range of tasks in the construction industry, from framing buildings to crafting custom furniture.Skills that are helpful as a carpenter include reading blueprints, carpentry techniques, and a high attention to detail. They should also be familiar with using hand tools and power tools.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and training is usually done on the job through paid apprenticeships.Work experience required: None&nbsp;Median annual salary: $64,000Total potential pay: $52,000 - $80,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $54,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 1%<h2>17. Commercial HVAC Technician</h2>Commercial HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians specialize in the installation, maintenance, repair, and servicing of HVAC systems in commercial and industrial buildings.Their skills usually include technical HVAC knowledge, and mechanical and electrical skills. Commercial HVAC technicians should also have strong diagnostic skills to identify and resolve HVAC system issues.Entry-level education required: High school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training through apprenticeships and other training programs.Work experience required: None&nbsp;Median annual salary: $63,376Total potential pay: $51,000 - $79,000&nbsp;Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: $130,000Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 6%<h2>18. Union IronWorker</h2>

How much does a #unionironworker make in Indiana? #salarytransparentstreet #ironworker #ironworkers

Ironworkers fabricate and install structural iron and steel components used in construction projects. They work primarily with iron, steel, and other metal materials to build frameworks, structures, bridges, and other infrastructure.Skills needed include metalworking skills, the ability to read blueprints, and physical strength to handle heavy steel. They’ll also need to be able to work at great heights and walk on narrow beams.Entry-level education required: High school diploma, and on-the-job training through apprenticeships.Work experience required: NoneMedian annual salary: $62,456Total potential pay: $50,000 - $79,000Highest-paying salary in our Salary Database: N/A but if you’re an ironworker, <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">add your salary</a>!Projected growth rate up to year 2032: 2%

<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Trade Jobs</h2><h2>How do I know what trade job is right for me?</h2>Choosing the right trade job for you involves considering various factors, including your interests, skills, personality traits, career goals, and lifestyle preferences. For example, if you’re curious about the human body and are normally interested in medical subjects, you should explore medical trades.<h2>Can you make 6 figures in a trade?</h2>Many trade workers don’t start out making 6 figures right away but can grow their salaries to six figures as their seniority grows. Union workers may hit 6 figures quicker than non-union workers due to high overtime pay by the hour.

<a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub/discussing-salary-with-coworkers">Discussing salary with coworkers</a> can also help get a good idea of how much you can expect to make as you build your experience.<h2>What is the highest-paying trade job?</h2>The highest-paying trade workers include sonographers and dental hygienists. However, dental hygienists have more education requirements and longer programs.<h2>Which is the quickest trade to learn?</h2>The "quickest" trade to learn can vary depending on factors such as your existing skills, interests, and the specific trade's requirements. Trades that tend to have shorter programs are welding and construction, although they aren’t the highest-paying trades.<h2>Do trade jobs require a college degree?</h2>Trade jobs don't require a bachelor's degree, but some may require an associate's degree, licensing, or certifications. Several trades only require a high school diploma and workers get paid to learn on the job.<h2>How to Get Into a Skilled Trade</h2>There are tons of high-paying trade jobs that require minimal schooling and paid training so you get hands-on experience as you learn your job. This is the complete opposite of paying thousands on a bachelor's degree that doesn’t provide any sort of experience.&nbsp;If you have a trade in mind, the <a href="https://www.bls.gov/ooh/">Occupational Outlook Handbook</a> from the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is a great resource for looking up each trade, the requirements for it, and information on how to actually land the job.&nbsp;For trades that require program completion with a certification, the handbook has links for which ones are accredited and are better to take. This way you’re not confused about how to proceed forward. You can also search job sites for any trade position to see what current trade jobs are requiring.Our YouTube channel is another great resource for learning more about different professions and how much they make.Don’t forget to browse our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a> and <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/onboarding">join the movement</a>!&nbsp;That wraps it up for this week. Until then, stay awesome, stay strong, and keep advocating for yourself no matter what! I’m Daniella, a writer, engineer, and creator of <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/">I Like to Dabble </a>and <a href="https://iliketodabble.com/remote-work-bestie/">Remote Work Bestie</a> - my blog and podcast for leveling up your money, career, and side hustles. I’m extremely passionate about workers' rights and financial freedom, so it’s a pleasure to be able to bring you this type of content through the <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/resource-hub">Salary Transparent Street blog</a> (thank you for the opportunity, Hannah!) You can also follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iliketodabbleblog/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@iliketodabble">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellamarquez/">Linkedin</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/iliketodabble">Twitter</a>. Chat soon!Do you know if you're being underpaid? <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/p/underpaid-quiz">Take our free quiz</a> to find out!Need help determining your market rate? Download our free <a href="https://view.flodesk.com/pages/626ccc8e1e8046b220253e47">Market Research Guide</a> to learn what you should be making.Explore over 5,000+ individually reported salaries nationwide across all industries in our <a href="https://www.salarytransparentstreet.com/salary-database">Salary Database</a>!Follow us on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@salarytransparentstreet">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/salarytransparentstreet/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salarytransparentstreet">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/salarytransparentstreet">YouTube </a>and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/salarytransparentstreet/">LinkedIn </a>for daily pay transparency interviews and career news you can use!Subscribe to our <a href="https://salarytransparentstreet.beehiiv.com/subscribe">weekly newsletter</a> for news updates, professional deep dives, learning opportunities, and more!Send us an email ➡️ hello@salarytransparentstreet.com

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