Is 15 an hour too much to ask for?

I've been with this company for 4 years now and when I started I was doing freelance for a national company making 15 an hour right out of college. When I started I asked for 15 they offered 10 I took it b/c I wanted full time. Well now 4 years later and after a move "up" to the creative department I'm only making 13.50. At my review they offered to bump me up to 14.50 I countered with 15 even. I really don't think that's too much to ask for do you? The national average for an entry level graphic designer according to the 2006 AIGA salary survey is 33,000, so 15 an hour isn't even close to that. Plus I don't think I'm entry level anymore. Am I?





What to do? Keep pushing and look for a new job?


or settle for 14.75?

Is 15 an hour too much to ask for?
Depends on where you are. A national average is just a starting place. You gotta find out what the local markets are paying. You also have to weigh that against whether or not you have a large employer with lots of assets, or a mom %26amp; pop operation. The mom %26amp; pop won't be able to afford as much as the corp. Also, look at your benefits. Do you have a fairly flexible schedule or are you checked by punching in and out on the minute? Is the employer understanding or not? Do you have health insurance, and a 401k? Instead of raising your hourly rate, would they be more amenable to contributing a certain percentage of your contribution to a retirement fund? Would you hate yourself after moving to a new job? Are you leaving lifelong friends behind?





It's more than just the $--it's all the intangibles you have to take into consideration.





Good luck.
Reply:How much does it mean to you to not get $10 a week? Do the 14.50, tell them do that, and do it now, but you want 15. That is a dollar and is full time? What about the benefit package? 401K? Profit sharing. There are other hidden bennies that could make the difference. Stubborn for $20 doesn't cut it. Moving job will be a pain. Do you like the people? Apparently. The first jewish rule of business, Get the Money!
Reply:I say take the 14.75, and do some REALLY good work, and maybe you can ask for 15 at the next review.





Or they could kick you out. Do you want to take that chance?
Reply:33,000/yr is 15.87 / hr, so $15/hr is close to that
Reply:Tough question...I guess it depends on how badly you need this job and what the job prospects are like for your field in your area.





I don't think $15/hour is too much to ask after 4 years, and you would NOT be considered entry level any longer...





Sorry I can't be more definitive. It really is a personal/financial decision you'll have to make, but I wish you good luck!
Reply:i agree with scottcle...