I used to have the same salary as my male coworker,
”
Chuck,
”
but I recently learned that he now makes more than I do.
Q:
I used to have the same salary as my male coworker, “Chuck,” but I recently learned that he now makes more than I do. I have more work experience, but he gets more face time with our manager. Our boss is frequently in Chuck’s office discussing ordinary issues that everyone encounters. He seems to be her pet. In my area, I try to handle problems myself so as not to trouble her with them.
Since we have exactly the same duties, I believe Chuck has been given more money simply because he’s a man. I love my job and don’t want to leave, but I feel this is wrong. What do you think is going on?
A:
It’s quite possible that Chuck simply asked for a raise. Women often assume that someone will notice their good work, then bestow the appropriate reward. Men are more likely to ask for what they think they deserve.
Another possibility is that your boss has no idea what you’re doing. If you’ve been silently toiling away, without any upward communication, she could be unaware of the challenges you face and the issues you resolve.
By trying “not to trouble her,” you may be putting yourself at a political disadvantage. After all, she can’t give you credit for activities she knows nothing about.
Chuck’s frequent meetings with your manager allow him to display his problem-solving skills and discuss accomplishments. So he may make a better impression, even if he’s less capable than you are.
Before concluding that your salary gap is caused by gender discrimination, try becoming more assertive and communicative with your boss. Schedule regular appointments to talk about work, then use one of those meetings to explain why you deserve a raise.
Q:
I work in a small office with a woman who loudly cracks and snaps her chewing gum. This lady is pushing 40 years old, so her behavior seems very unprofessional.
The popping noises drive me crazy and makes it hard to concentrate. I’ve tried earplugs, but they get in the way when I need to answer the phone or talk to people.
I spend my breaks with the gum chewer, so I don’t want to aggravate her. How do I handle this?
A:
Some people can easily screen out background noise, while others hear every little sound. So the snapping that bothers you may not even be noticed by other colleagues.
If you decide to approach your coworker, frame the request as a favor, not a criticism.
For example: “You may find this odd, but I’m one of those people who is hyper-sensitive to noise. Would it be possible for you to chew your gum without cracking it?”
But if you choose not to address the issue, then you need to stop obsessing about it.
If you’re constantly on edge, waiting for the first crack, you’ll be irritated before she even pops the gum in her mouth.
