Is it Wrong to Discuss Salaries at Work?

Q: My company just hired a new employee, and even though we’re on the same level, I’m pretty sure he’s being paid more than I am. Is there a way I can politely ask him his salary?

A: The fact of the matter is that if you actually knew what your coworkers made, it would probably create a bad situation. Whether bitterness or pride, neither is a good idea and each will create tension in the workplace. And that’s bad for business. If you were supposed to know how much another person made at your company, the employee handbook would not specifically state that you should NOT discuss salaries. There is an actual, valid reason for this rule. It’s not just a power trip by management to control you.

If you have ever managed a group of people, you know that salaries are not always equal to talent. There is disparity due to any number of reasons such as demand for the job, number of years of experience, contacts, etc. You still might wonder how much your colleague is making and if you are being treated fairly, but just work hard and do your best to make sure you are being paid what you are worth. Don’t worry about things you don’t know or cannot control.