Promised a raise and then it was revoked...

[TigerGalLE, BSN, RN]

So I recently took and passed my medsurg certification exam with the understanding I would receive a 5% raise once certified. My director has been pushing us for some time to get certified. She specifically told me that once I passed I would become a clinical ladder 3 which would give me a 5% raise. She strongly encouraged me to do this... so I did. Now she says she can't give me the raise, but I'm still a level 3. Woo hoo. I'm so bumbed. So yea I just did it for the money... it is just frustrating. Esp since I was the only one on my unit that actually took the initiative to do it. Thanks for letting me vent.

Tiger

[Batman25]

I wish you had something in writing from your manager. Is there anything in the employee handbook that states raises go along wioth jumps up on the corporate ladder? When you move up money usually does accompany it. Did you question why you were promised something and then when completed it was taken away? I would put up a little of a fuss as sometimes the squeaky wheel gets its turn. Don't be too quick to let them off the hook. You did as requested and now she should keep her end of the bargain as well. At the very least she should let you know when you can expect the promised raise. Can you get HR involved?

[MedSurgeMess]

I wish you had something in writing from your manager. Is there anything in the employee handbook that states raises go along wioth jumps up on the corporate ladder? Did you question why you were promised something and then when completed it was taken away? I would put up a little of a fuss as sometimes the squeaky wheel gets its turn.

sometimes the squeaky wheel gets replaced. I've seen the same type incident in my facility twice in the last month, and both parties were "let go to pursue other interests". And this is a Magnet facility!

[TigerGalLE, BSN, RN]

She says they are revamping the clinical ladder system. And once it is changed I will get my raise. "If I qualify." She could have told me that though... esp because she knew I was in the process of getting certified. And why even bother telling me I'm a level 3 if I get no raise and may get demoted?

[TigerGalLE, BSN, RN]

Just checked the policy. Nothing about pay raises included in writing.

[Batman25]

She says they are revamping the clinical ladder system. And once it is changed I will get my raise. "If I qualify." She could have told me that though... esp because she knew I was in the process of getting certified. And why even bother telling me I'm a level 3 if I get no raise and may get demoted?

I have a feeling you will keep your Level 3. They should grandfather all the current levels in as they are. That's what usually happens so I don't think you will be demoted. I don't however feel as confident about you getting the raise you deserve which is shameful on their part. You upheld your end of their bargain and they should uphold theirs. Hang in there and don't be afraid to defend your position on this subject. If they were promised money they would do the same. Good luck and let us know how you make out.

[SweetOldWorld, BSN, RN]

So I recently took and passed my medsurg certification exam with the understanding I would receive a 5% raise once certified. My director has been pushing us for some time to get certified. She specifically told me that once I passed I would become a clinical ladder 3 which would give me a 5% raise. She strongly encouraged me to do this... so I did. Now she says she can't give me the raise, but I'm still a level 3. Woo hoo. I'm so bumbed. So yea I just did it for the money... it is just frustrating. Esp since I was the only one on my unit that actually took the initiative to do it. Thanks for letting me vent.

Tiger

Congrats on passing your exam! I have to believe that it will pay off for you in the end, somehow, despite this current disappointment.

[wooh, BSN, RN]

Hospitals everywhere are going back on promised pay raises. We didn't get our yearly one last year. Ladder systems are going from a definite raise to a maybe raise. But we're still pushed to go for certifications and such because it looks nice on their magnet surveys.

If nothing else, the studying made you a better nurse, and will look nice on your resume if/when you decide to go elsewhere.

[MJB2010]

Will they at least reimburse for the certification? Maybe you can ask her about that? I would prob try to do all further communication in email so you at least have this stuff in writing. I would be really upset, too! That is a pretty low thing to do, reneg like that. Boo.

[vanlo001]

Best advice: do everything via email. There is then a time date stamp on it and it is irrefutable evidence of the agreement. After the staff meeting I would have written a note via email stating based on the information provided during our staff meeting I have decided to pursue my certification in Med/surg and pursue the promotion to staff nurse 3 at blank salary. That way even if she emails back , OK, and then 2 months later when you obtain the certification and the economy is in the toilet she will have a harder time placating you with this pretend promotion.

Congrats on your certification though. It will increase your knowledge and have it's own awards that can't be taken from you.

[caliotter3]

Well, at least it will make you better qualified the next time you look for a job.

[Otessa, BSN, RN]

This is why everything needs to be in writing which stinks....

otessa