It's the act of assigning a job level or title that is lower than what a candidate or employee's experience and qualifications would typically warrant. This can happen in hiring, when a candidate is offered a position lower than their expected level. It can also happen in performance reviews or restructuring when an employee is placed in a lower-level job.

It can be beneficial if an individual wants to learn new skills or transition to a new field, even if it means starting at a lower level. It can also lead to frustration for experienced professionals who want a job at a level aligned with their relevant experience.

Why Does it Happen?

Companies may down level to reduce costs or to better align an employee's experience with the specific requirements of a job. It can be a natural consequence of moving between companies with different level structures or cultures. Sometimes, it's due to a candidate’s interview performance not matching the expectations for the job, even if the candidate has the experience.

Impact of Down Leveling

It can negatively impact an employee's compensation, career growth, and morale. It can lead to feelings of frustration and devaluation, especially for seasoned professionals. It can also impact a company's hiring practices, reputation, and talent retention.

Handling Down Leveling

If you're being down leveled, it's important to understand the reasons why and negotiate a compensation and career growth plan that aligns with your experience. It's crucial to communicate clearly with your manager or HR about your expectations and career goals. In some cases, it might be necessary to seek other job opportunities that better match your level and experience.

Let’s talk if you need help in this type of situation so your pay is impacted in a way that makes sense for you and for your employer.

#DownLeveling #careergrowth #compensation #hr #humanresources #careerdevelopment #payequity #rewards #paytransparency #fairpay #pay