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I used to think talking about money with friends was rude, but now I think not talking about it is worse
For years, I followed the rule that you never discuss your salary or rent with anyone. It felt like bad manners. Then, about two years ago, a coworker and I got drinks after a project wrapped, and he just came out and asked what I was making. I was shocked, but I told him. Turns out, he was getting paid $15,000 more for the same exact job title. That one conversation changed everything for me. Now, I bring it up with close friends, especially when we're in similar fields. It's not about bragging; it's about making sure nobody is getting screwed over. The silence only helps the bosses. How do you even start that chat without it getting weird?
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luna8917mo ago
How do you bring it up without it feeling like a trap? I found it helps to frame it around the job itself, not the person. Like, "man, the cost of living is wild, I'm trying to figure out if my pay is even normal for this role." That opens the door. You're right that silence helps bosses, but I'd push back a little on only talking with close friends. Sometimes the most useful info comes from casual work friends, because they're in the exact same company culture. It's scarier, but that's where you find out about the real pay gaps.
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felix_henderson546mo ago
Honestly, people forget about former employees. They've got nothing to lose and will tell you the real numbers they were making. Hit up someone who left last year.
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hill.andrew7mo ago
That's a good point about casual work friends.
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