Sorry, this is long. A while back I asked whether $21/hr was low for a 2nd-year non-union plumber near Manville. I had my review on Friday.
I brought a written list of what I can do alone now: water heaters, toilets, most drain calls, two small repipes. I asked for $24 plus mileage. I got $23 and mileage at a set rate per mile, which is less than I asked for but more than I had. My boss said we'd "talk again in the spring."
Is it normal to land in the middle like that, or did I leave money on the table?
Mechanical contractor (HVAC + plumbing) · 24 years · Burlington County, NJ
Mentor✓ Accepted answer
Here's what I look for when I give a raise, and you did most of it: you came in with what you can do on your own, not what you think you deserve. Landing in the middle is normal; most owners expect to.
The part I'd lock down is "talk again in the spring." Ask him what specifically he wants to see by then, and write it down while you're still in the room.
Electrical Contractor · 22 years · Monmouth County, NJ
Mentor
Honestly that's a solid review. I've had guys walk in asking for five dollars more with nothing to show me. You showed up with a list. Keep adding to it every month and spring takes care of itself.
HVAC contractor, owner · 25 years · Middlesex County, NJ
Mentor
Good outcome. Two things to check now that it's settled:
- Is the mileage on your pay stub, or cash in an envelope? It should be on paper
- Get the new rate in writing, even a text
The $2 matters, but the mileage is the part most guys forget to ask for.
Apprentice plumber · 2 years · Somerset County, NJ
edit: thanks all. I texted him asking for the spring goals like haddad_mech said and he actually sent them back. Two items. Writing them on the inside of my truck visor.