Are You Underpaid? How One Professional Increased His Salary by 25% Using This Playbook.

Meet Pathum. He’s a talented project manager, a team player, and great at his job. But for months, he had a nagging feeling: he was underpaid. He was guessing at his worth, and it was costing him.

Then, he decided to stop guessing and start strategizing. In three months, he landed a new role with a 25% salary increase plus incredible benefits. How did he do it? He followed a playbook. This is that playbook.

1. He Ditched Local Thinking for a Global Mindset

Pathum’s first move was to stop looking at jobs in his city. He used LinkedIn Salary and Glassdoor to understand the global benchmark for his role. He learned that remote-first companies paid significantly more for his skills, instantly expanding his potential.

2. He Identified His “Salary Multiplier” Skills

Pathum realized his experience with Asana and cloud collaboration tools wasn’t just a line on his resume—it was a high-value skill. Data shows skills in AI, data storytelling, and digital project management can boost pay by up to 60%. He started highlighting these in his profile and interviews.

3. He Looked at the Whole Picture, Not Just the Paycheck
One offer had a high base salary but poor health benefits. Another offered slightly less but included a generous training budget and stock options. Maya calculated the total compensation and realized the second offer would make his wealthier in the long run.

4. He didn’t just say he had experience—He proved it
As a mid-career professional, Pathum had years of experience. Instead of saying, “Managed projects,” he said, “Led a 5-person team to deliver Project X two weeks ahead of schedule, saving an estimated $15,000 in operational costs.” He backed every claim with numbers.

5. He Used Data to Make His Case
When the offer came, Pathum was ready. He didn’t say, “I’d like more.” He said, “Based on global benchmarks for a professional with my certified skills in digital project management, the market rate is between X and Y. I believe a package in that range better reflects the value I’ll bring.” It was confident, objective, and impossible to ignore.

He also negotiated for flexible work hours and a guaranteed performance bonus, proving that negotiation goes beyond salary.

The Result?
Pathum didn’t just accept the first offer. He negotiated confidently because he had done his homework. The company, impressed by his preparation, not only met his salary request but expressed excitement about bringing such a strategic thinker on board.

Your Turn
Pathum’s story isn’t unique. It’s the result of a clear strategy. Know your worth, gather your data, and communicate your impact. Your career is your biggest asset—start treating it like one.

The TalentIsle Team

Shared in partnership with Chammika Mallawaarachchi, PhD, who contributes his knowledge, skills, and experience to TalentIsle on an honorary basis to inspire and guide our readers toward their career goals.