regionally and from company to company; a junior sales associate at one organization may actually be performing a considerably different role than someone at another organization with the same title.

“This company is known for paying low salaries, from what I’ve read.”

If the comment comes from a candidate, you’ll likely get a chance to prove you pay a competitive rate if you make the person an offer. Current employees, however, can also come across negative pay-related comments on employer review websites.

While you may not be able to discuss it with employees who approach you about pay, it’s possible some items may have been posted by disgruntled former employees who are actually upset about other issues — or current employees who are basing their assessment off incorrect online salary estimates.

If you’re seeing or hearing about a lot of negative pay-related comments, however, it may help to conduct a benchmarking review to confirm your employees aren’t being underpaid.

“My coworker says she makes more than me.”

HR team members may find it helpful to discuss any key reasons coworkers are in a higher pay grade. Pointing out different responsibilities, unique experience or skills, years in the industry or additional degrees the person possesses, for instance, may help employees understand why colleagues are receiving additional compensation.

On a positive note, the situation may present an opportunity to encourage employees to take advantage of any training, tuition reimbursement or other programs the company offers to work toward achieving a higher position and salary.

Information provided by: Talent Intelligence