Who’s in the mood for a little myth-busting?
Today is Equal Pay Day. To celebrate commiserate we thought it would be worth reviewing six of the best excuses for the pay gap – and why they are completely ridiculous.
1. Karma will rectify the pay gap!
Last year Microsoft’s global CEO Satya Nadella prompted a pretty swift and immediate stream of feedback regarding the wisdom he shared at a women in tech conference. “It’s not really about asking for a raise, but knowing and having faith that the system will give you the right raise.”
He went on: “That might be one of the initial ‘super powers’ that, quite frankly, women [who] don’t ask for a raise have,” he added. “It’s good karma. It will come back.” To his credit he later offered an unreserved apology and said his advice was wrong. As things stand, if anyone is benefitting from any pay karma swirling around there out there, it ain’t women.
2. If women just asked for more money the pay gap would disappear!
If only! As tempting as it is to blame women’s deficient earnings on their deficient negotiation skills, there’s a stack of compelling evidence that shows when women do ask for more money they’re often punished for it. Why? Because women who ask for money are considered pushy. And apparently no one wants to pay a pushy woman any extra.
3. It’s a myth!
News Limited columnist, Miranda Devine is a significant proponent of this argument. “I know of not a single job where the pay for the sexes is different,” she wrote in one of her many columns on the subject.
Top Comments
I am happy this topic eventually gets proper attention! Pay imbalance is definitely not a myth, rather math. In terms of pay gap, it should definitely be compared within the occupation. Indeed, It is unfair to say 'You get paid far higher than average, you are not at liberty to whine' to those show business entertainers. No matter how much you earn, you deserve proper rewards regardless of gender identity. I am running the campaign that increase the awareness of gender equality.
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This is just what I needed to read. I shared a post on Facebook in regards to women typically retiring with 40% less super than men and that we need to change this! I am a financial planner and I'm very passionate about women taking charge of their money now and for their future. I know the reason for this is we work less hours due to having children (god forbid), and not once did I insinuate it was men's fault.
However, a male mate of mine wrote me the most alarming tirade (via private message) saying that was all baseless crap and if women worked as hard and as long it would be the same.
I told him I had previously worked in a bank role and had the exact same job as male colleague, same targets and role expectations. However his salary was 30% higher and his max bonus was $45k, whilst mine was $15k. I only found this out 2 years into the job and also I pushed for a higher salary when I started but was told there was absolutely no wiggle room. My colleague had been in the role 6 months earlier. I didn't even mention the constant sexual harassment I had the privilege to endure.
His automatic response was to say well he must've been better and had more experience than me.
I am in shock and believe some men see these issues as us being angry and bitter at men and that we are blaming them for EVERYTHING! Instead we are simply sharing facts and want to educate others. I don't want to take money from the men, I just want it to be on par for the same duties.
I'm trying not be beaten down by this, so will do my best to keep up the good fight!
Of course - that's the law. But that doesn't mean women can't take control of their own savings now and for retirement. Not all women are in relationships either.
It doesn't hurt to maximise the opportunities available and take control. It has nothing to do with stressing. Quite a sad way to look at it really.