Question: I’ve been working for this company for seven years. I have no contract. I started working a technician then promoted to receptionist then parts salesmen. They decided to let me run the parts department as a company on its own. My duties include management, sales, purchaser, creditors and debtors. I’ve worked completely on my own. I dont have any educational experience but did aquire experience at previous employers. My salary is less than R10000.00 i feel discriminated against because I’m a women and I’m coloured. My fellow collegues in the other company gets petrol and cellphone allowances and earns more than me we are six employees and me as the only lady. Can I ask for a better compensation package or am i unable because of my qualification.

Answer: Any employee may ask that their salary package be increased in accordance with their duties and responsibilities. If you feel that you are being unfairly treated I suggest you write a letter to the HR Manager or your immediate manager (I am unaware of your company setup) stating why you believe you deserve an increase. Make sure you include all your current duties and responsibilities and give comparisons with other colleagues that may be doing similar duties to you and are being paid a higher package. Nothing stops you from asking as to why this is the case. Education, although important, can be counted with our current recognised training system called NQF which recognises prior experience in lieu of a formal qualification.

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