What are the typical employee benefits I should be able to expect?

Question

I have been working in a very busy chiropractic office for 6 months and my job title is Director of Patient Relations. You name it I do it. I handle all aspects of an office manager as well as being the doctor's assistant by keeping the practice running smoothly. I am responsible for a million things one of them is handling all of the personal things the doctor doesn't want to that might involve possible confrontation with patients, insurance, and vendors. My employer has never managed employees before and I do not want to seem selfish or ungrateful. I feel that my current responsibilities are extremely more demanding then I was aware of at the time the job offer was made and my salary and benefits are not matched with my responsibilities. For example I had to go as far as to ask to be paid for Labor Day. What would be a fair salary to request during my 6 month review, and what benefits are typical from privately owned businesses. At this time I am salary I work about 45 hours a week. My background is 12 years of sales, client services and high level administrative. The only benefits I currently have are 5 paid vacation days after I work there for a year and the typical holidays (now that I have brought attention to them). I want to be fair. What should I be able to ask for?

Answer 1

Working for a private company usually means less benefits. However, at a minimum you should be getting 5-10 business days paid vacation time + all statutory holidays. Also you should be getting an annual 2.5% increase of salary to remain leveled with the CPI.

In terms of your duties, you could ask to re-evaluate your job description and have a more transparent and detailed outline. If your employer agrees and you both sit down together and outline the duties you are currently providing, it will be much simpler and appropriate to ask for a more substantial raise.

However, I recommend treading carefully and testing the waters before you begin to make demands. You don't want to strain your relationship with your employer, especially in the private sector. Not only may it lead to an eventual loss of job, but would simply make your days less bearable at work.

Remember that you are an asset to the company, and don't be shy to remind your employer either. However, don't EVER bite the hand that feeds you ...in other words, be polite, respectful, professional and toned down when you're asking for more from your employer...even if you are entitled to it. Don't forget you spend most of your time at work, and it would just suck to have an uncomfortable working environment because of a misunderstanding.

Good luck :)