Remuneration Package: Beyond The Gross Salary

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What to look for in a remuneration package

A remuneration package is simply the whole package of salary, benefits, bonuses allowances and commissions that come with the job. It basically consists of more than just a salary and incorporates other benefits. Most recruiters ask what would be the ideal salary package during interviews. Conversely, most job seekers are usually concerned about gross pay figures that they forget to ask about other benefits that are attached to the position. While negotiating for a remuneration package, there are other benefits that you should consider besides the salary.

Some companies may not offer a huge gross salary but they have other packages which make your life easier and may even help you grow in your career. A good remuneration package may actually be better than a high gross salary. There are many benefits that may actually make the position very attractive apart from more zeros on the gross pay. Before negotiating for a salary, it is important to consider other benefits that come with the job. Here is what to consider:

Private medical cover

Medical care is expensive and a private medical cover can be more expensive especially if it covers all your family members. However, some employers take this burden off your back by offering a comprehensive medical cover for you and your family members. This enables you to enjoy the best medical care when you need it, even when your bank balance cannot allow it.

Good health is a gift but we all fall sick and if this happens in the middle of the month, you may face challenges. Your medical cover thus comes in handy by affording you quality medical attention with no visible dent in your bank account. Therefore, as you negotiate the gross salary pay, ask your potential employer about medical benefits.

Training and development

The world is changing very fast. As more skills are required to perform tasks, it has become necessary to get additional training so as to keep up with the changing world and keep performing well. Some companies offer formal training, seminars, and workshops, all of which sharpen your skills and make you a better version of yourself.

The more training you get, the more you improve your performance. This will give you leverage to negotiate for more benefits, a better salary package or a better position. Additionally, these skills may be transferable and thus, you get to earn skills that will land you your next big job, with more benefits or a higher salary. Some organizations even take their employees to school in order to learn new things. All these will help you grow in your career and eventually get those zeros added on your pay cheque.

Flexitime

Work-life balance can be tricky for most people. You want to devote enough time to your employer while not neglecting your family or your personal time. This can be touchy especially in highly demanding jobs. However, some employers give you the option to clock in early and leave early, or come in late and leave late or even work from home.

All these benefits ensure that you give your job maximum attention and your family gets your attention when it’s needed. You may also get the option of a paid or unpaid vacation time, all of which work to your advantage. Take advantage of flexitime to grow in your career and bond with your family.

The job’s scope

Some companies operate in entire regions or multiple countries. Some positions require close coordination of activities and operations. An opportunity to work in such a company or position means that you get to travel and learn how to operate at an international level.

This way, you gain experience and expertise in many fields which pave the way for future jobs and opportunities. These regular travel activities are usually catered for by the company and thus, you get to travel on the company’s tab. These vast experiences enrich your worldview and offer you great opportunities for career and personal growth.

The duties and responsibilities of the job may also help you sharpen your skills as you take on more responsibilities. For example, you may become a key account manager, which will enable you to build your network as well as strengthen your negotiation skills. These can come in handy when you are negotiating for a raise or looking for a new job.

Bonuses and commissions

Some companies may not offer lucrative salaries but they sure do give attractive bonuses and commissions every so often. Such remuneration packages may be more attractive than the actual salary and the best part is that you get to be in control.

Some companies give bonuses upon the successful completion of tasks or once employees hit their targets. The employees thus get to work hard and increase their chances of getting good bonuses.

Some jobs, especially in sales, give commissions as part of the remuneration package. The commissions may be on a monthly or quarterly basis. This means that you get to decide how much commission you get by coming up with strategies that improve your performance. This may be better than a high salary which is fixed and does not change based on your performance. Look at it as being self-employed but still working for someone else.

Allowances

There are also many allowances that come with some positions. For example, there are companies that offer mileage, transport and housing allowances. All these allowances may increase what you take home at the end of the month, in addition to your salary. These allowances may be fixed or negotiable.

House and transport allowances are the most common forms of allowances in the country. They are designed to help you afford housing and traveling costs and most vary depending on location. For example, the government of Kenya offers higher housing and traveling allowances for its employees in urban and hardship areas.

There are also hardship allowances in some companies, given to people who work in areas with no standard social amenities such as arid and semi-arid areas. These allowances are meant to allow employees afford a relatively comfortable lifestyle despite the prevailing circumstances. All these allowances can go a long way in boosting your bank account’s balance.

Job security

With the economy changing from time to time, some jobs are now on contracts, which can be terminated on short notice. In short, the job may have an attractive salary but that carpet can be pulled from under your feet anytime.

As part of a remuneration package, some companies offer their employees permanent and pensionable contracts, which give them job security. This stability gives you the chance to plan your life accordingly, knowing that your job is somewhat cushioned from factors such as prevailing economic circumstances, which may be beyond your control.

Jobs with job security also make it hard for you to lose your job and it takes gross violation of laid down rules and regulations to lose your job.

Pension payments

Pension schemes secure your future after retirement and provide you with a comfortable life even when you are not actively engaged in income generating activities. In some cases, permanent and pensionable employees are enrolled in good pension schemes where both the employer and employee make contributions, effectively securing your future. You can thus go about your life knowing that in the event of unforeseen circumstances you and your family may not suffer due to death or old age.

Pay rise policies

Your starting salary may be little and unsatisfactory. However, this situation may not last forever. While some companies have fixed salary rules that make it hard to get a raise, others (and in most cases), have annual salary reviews. Of course, these are usually pegged on performance and you get a chance to actually determine your chances of getting a raise. Such companies give room for negotiation and you can thus use your performance to negotiate for a good raise.

In some cases, it is company policy to have annual salary reviews, based on the company’s revenue. This, therefore, means that there is almost a guarantee to get a raise every so often and that seemingly small salary may not remain that way for so long.

In conclusion, a good remuneration package may be more attractive than the salary itself. When negotiating for salary or choosing job offers, bear in mind that a good remuneration package may be better that more zeros on your package in the long term. It is always advisable to ask the recruitment manager what other benefits come with the job apart from the salary, before negotiating. This will force the manager to divulge remuneration details, which he/she may not divulge beforehand.

Mueke Katwa
I have two years experience in Business Support which covers Human Resource as a function; and a lifelong passion in creative writing.
 

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173 COMMENTS

  6. I was at a job interview and when it came to salary negotiation, I was tempted to ask what other benefits the company was offering besides the salary, and I was shocked to learn that the recruitment manager didn’t take my question lightly and she even went further to warn me never to ask the question in other interview as it might lead to my disqualification!

    • Hi Carol,
      Thanks a lot for your testimonial, we are glad you know now what to and not ask.
      Keep writing to us, your engagement is highly appreciated.

      ^TM

  8. This is a well authored article and it makes all the sense! I particularly like part of the concluding remarks…. “It is always advisable to ask the recruitment manager what other benefits come with the job apart from the salary, before negotiating. This will force the manager to divulge remuneration details, which he/she may not divulge beforehand”. This is the plain truth, but unfortunately, many people go for the salary only and thus, end up getting a raw deal!

    Kudos BM

    • Karibu Masanya, from the feedback you have given we can tell you are now well equipped to face those employers. Keep it Brighter Monday for more career advice.

      ^TM

  14. Very Informative. Question how does one go about asking the potential employer if they have such benefits? I heard some companies will not inform you unless you ask.

    • Hi Tina,
      The best approach is to wait until the recruitment manager asks you what your salary expectation is. At this point, you politely ask what other benefits come with the job apart from the gross salary. The trick is to have the recruitment manager tell you what else is offered apart from the gross salary. it will also help you know just how much you can ask for. All the best.

      ^NK

  15. Very informative.This has worked for me.Money aside,getting a job that exposes you to advanced skills is the best catalyst to your career growth.

    • We couldn’t have said it better Francesca, your growth does matter.
      Keep it here for more informative articles.

      ^TM

    • Hi Ibrahim,
      Thanks a lot for your testimonial and readership.
      This is a living proof that we are Kenyans number one jobsite.
      Do share the testimony to others so that they also can secure a job via our platform.

      ^TM

  21. Am Ibrahim who is trying to extend my thanking to you guys because of the heart you have shown the world especially Uganda which has the big number of unemployed people so thanks again for that work God bless

    • Thank you very much Ibrahim,
      We highly appreciate your continued support as a matter of fact its such feedback that keeps us motivated to do more than what is in our mandate.

      ^TM

  22. Thanks for the wonderful insights on this subject. It is not only encouraging but informative.
    I have a question not related to this though. I work with a tough supervisor who has no regard for staff welfare. I am now entitled to a Paternity Leave but I am unable to float this to him. He is an expatriate and has no information on this. What is the best way to handle him on the issue of my Paternity Leave?

    • Hi Mohamud,

      We sympathize with you in your current situation. Does the company have a human resource professional? If yes, you can go through them. If not, you have no option but to face your employer with your request. Basing on your description of him, he does not look like the kind who will not appreciate you approaching with demands. Go to him with a request for time off. Be prepared for him to inform you that he will deduct the days off your annual leave or pay. So be ready with a choice if such a condition is made. Also be ready for him to flatly refuse.
      When working for such employers, you need to know how to handle them. Yes it is your right as an employee, but he does not see it that way. The only solution is to handle them as they are, as you continue looking for a job where your personal rights are respected and observed. But since you need the job, you currently need to develop survival mechanisms to put up with the current situation.

      We wish you all the best finding a job that deserves you Mohamud and congratulations on your bundle of joy:)

      ^DM

  24. Hi can i get a job for my sis who about to graduate with a Bcom – Finance even if it internship which pays some allowances for sustability as she gains experience

  25. Very informative. Is it wise to negotiate salary raise in situations where there have been added responsibilities and the company culture is to review salaries after end of a contract?

    • Hi Judy,
      You can negotiate if you feel the responsibilities are too many and to some extend over whelming and yet the pay is little.
      However if the review is conducted yearly you can be persistent and wait till that time when now you can negotiate.

      ^TM

  27. really nice , my question is , normaly the recruiters ask for what one expects, do you think they would allow one to answer a question with a question like “before I answer that would you let me know if you have benefits?” This is die to the fact that u might give a gross amount assuming they have benefits, which maybe they do not have

    • Hi Caroline,
      It is okay to ask about benefits as most employers will usually not let you know. And yes, it is perfectly okay to say “Before giving you a figure, I am interested in knowing what other benefits come with this job.” It eliminates the chance for you to over quote or under quote your expectation.

      ^NK

  31. Wow thanks so much.I was in a dilemma whether to accept an offer of 20k net salary with other allowances based on meeting the target but now I have an answer.

  33. Indeed uve touched on a very insightful n vital aspect of career of which I got to realize very recently..There is more to the remuneration than just zeros!!!!kudos!!

  34. I have like this piece, I find it very informative. However I would like to hear your take on “……include in your application your current and expected salary….” Kindly, how should one handle this? Is it right for example to say, ….I currently earn a gross salary of ksh. 10,000, while my expected salary is open to discussion..” If you find time to respond, please copy me in.
    Thank You.

    • Hi Achieng,
      Thank you for writing to us,
      With regard to your question it is important to include as per the employers request. But what really matter is what to include and how you include it.Two important things you should consider here is:
      1. Enter a numerical range. But before you include it, you need to have done your homework, know your value on the market, and have a decent idea of what the position pays. From there, you’ll probably want to slide the scale so that your best guess at their initial offer is in the lower end of your range.
      2.When stating your previous salary, never lie and dramatically inflate it because you were underpaid. If the company goes back and verifies your past income – whether it’s the next week or the next year and finds out you lied, you’ll most likely lose the job so it is important to state the truth.
      We hope you put into consideration these measures when you come across a job that entails you to include the salary range.

      ^TM

    • Hi Linet,
      Kindly tell us know which course you had applied for and we will link you to a job that matches what your skills.

      ^TM

        • Hi Kelvin,
          Thank you for showing interest to our jobsite.
          Kindly check your profile because from our we have seen that it needs to be completed and also update your cv.
          Its only four months Kelvin so please be patient and make those few amendment because at the end of it you will get that call.

          ^TM

  36. I recently graduated with an M.A project management but my background is in medical lab science. I would like to change my line of work, how do i package my brand given i have more experience
    in the scientific realm than in arts , to merge the two and attract potential employers

    • Hi Abe,
      You should go for what comes first. Your experience matters because some employers are more interested with experience than papers, however you cant sideline them, just include both in your CV but when it comes to applying, make sure you utilize all the available opportunities that are there for both. We wish you all the best and please feel free to write back to us if you need more advice.

      ^TM

  39. Hi.
    This is eye opening. My current job offers me with basic salary and transport allowance only. Even when away from my area of operation (working as sales and technical rep) no night outs is given.
    Am not however complaining, taking that it is a private company and am not secured.
    My renumeration does not match my level of education and experience, but more based on performance on targets.
    Paul.
    Bsc Animal Science.

    • Hi Paul,
      Thank you for writing to us.
      We agree that a Bsc in science cannot be under rated but its also good that at least currently you are somewhere. However if you feel the job you’re currently doing does not meet your expectation then you can shift gears to another job that matches what you are qualified for. To have a view on the latest once we have advertised click here and find jobs that suites you

      ^TM

  40. i am an ardent user of brighter Monday for the last three years and i have never been invited for an interview though my profile is 100% complete. and i do apply for jobs that match my profile.

    • Hi Florence,
      We understand your frustration and yes sometimes you may have all your credentials right but not be successful enough to be called for an interview but this should not kill your moral, keep on applying and improve also on your time of application because the number of job seekers has increased and employers don’t always have the time to go through all the applications so you have to make sure that your Cv stands out among the rest. Above all pray, and keep that positive mindest because that day will come when you will be called to go for that interview. All the best.

      ^TM

  42. Good evening
    Am currently seeking a transition in my career.I currently work as a retail branch manager. Looking for opportunities for Area Sales Manager in Coast region.

  43. Very good piece of advise, hardly do I think in details about the remunerations except for the medical cover and of course, the number of zeros pegged on the gross salary. Thanks

  44. I have a problem getting a good job that matches my career,diploma graduate in Social work in addition I have done short courses like HIV testing services and Adherence please help

    • Hi Faith,
      Thanks alot for showing interest,
      We do have jobs that are under that category that you can apply. Kindly click the link here to view and apply.

      ^TM

    • Hi Remy
      Thank you for your readership.
      The list below can shed some light on the possible reasons that might have led to your current predicament;
      Do you send applications to job adverts that match your skills?
      Have you updated your CV since last year?
      Do you write a customized cover letter for each application?
      The number of job seekers has gone higher since last year, making the talent pool larger and you have to ensure your CV stands out from the rest.
      Start by editing your CV to reflect all the skills and experience you have gained. subscribe for alerts that are relevant to the career you wish to pursue.
      Update your profile to over 97% to make you more visible.
      We hope all these measures will improve your chances of being considered.

      ^TM

  47. hi..have been applying for jobs ad have n ever been called for interview ..having completed my diploma in secondary education and at the moment persuing my bachelors.

    • Hi Lisper,
      Thank you for your readership…we appreciate it.
      We did check into your account details and noted that you need to update your profile up to 99% and then upload an updated resume.
      Hopefully, these measures will go a long way to enhance your chances of getting a job via BM.

      ^TM

    • You’re welcome Evelyn,
      We endeavor to bring our readers relevant and practical tips.
      Keep it Brighter Monday for more enlightening career advice.

      ^TM

  49. Hi am Eustace Lukati. I have done a Diploma course in Tourism Management. It has been so hard for me to get a job because I have no experience. What can I do to gain experience in the same field. Pliz advise me. Thanks.

    • Hi Eustace,
      Thank you for writing to us.
      Don’t sit back, if its experience you are in need of, apply interns and voluntary jobs that we have on our site click here . These jobs will give you the experience you need and will also build your career. We would advice you also not to be picky, which ever opportunity that comes to you seize and utilize it to the best of your ability and make sure that you include the experience and achievements that you attained in your CV. By you getting the exposure you will increase your chances of being considered. All the best Eustace.
      ^TM

    • Hi David,
      Thank you for writing to us.
      We do understand your frustration how ever this is something that you can overcome. Just review your account and make sure you complete your profile, update your CV, subscribe to job alerts that matches your qualifications and all this will improve your chances of hearing from employers. Giving up should never be your option make those amendments and patiently wait and things will be better.
      ^TM

  52. Hi I’m kenneth. I’ve done Diploma course in Mechanical Engineering plant option and certificate courses in production. Both conventional and CNC lathe machine. I’ve been in post attachment at kengen olkaria from January to April this year. I’ve looked for a job bt it’s in vain. Kindly please can you help me.

    • Hi kenneth,
      Thank you for writing to us,
      We checked from our end and noticed three things which if implemented will improve your employer response.
      First of all please update your profile up to a range of 98% to 100 % profile completeness. here is a link to help you on that
      Secondly, it would be prudent if you upload an updated resume to your account. If you have problems in drafting click here and read through
      Finally, please subscribe to our job alerts using this link and apply for jobs as soon as you get the alert on your email inbox.
      Hopefully, these simple yet effective measure would go a long way in improving your user experience on our job site.

      ^TM

  53. Hi, I’m Godfrey, I have dine diploma in Procurement and certificate in stores and supply management. I have been applying for jobs as soon as I receive any alert, but I have never been called for any interview. Advice me .

  54. HI Brighter Monday.
    I got a job after following through your adverts that had been posted
    Thank you for this initiative.

    • Hi Wambui,
      Thanks a lot for the testimonial and your readership…We appreciate it.
      We wish you all the best in your job.

      ^TM

  55. Hi, brighter monday. I am shelmith i used to work but since i got married i stepped out to bring up my children. I am currently looking for a job. i have applied to many companies but i have not received any response interms of an interview. I am almost giving up please help

    • Hi Shelmith,
      Thank you for showing interest.
      We do understand your frustration,but there are few questions that you need to ask yourself:
      Do you send applications to job adverts that match your skills?
      Have you updated your CV since last year?
      Do you write a customized cover letter for each application?
      The number of job seekers has gone higher since last year, making the talent pool larger and you have to ensure your CV stands out from the rest.
      Start by editing your CV to reflect all the skills and experience you have gained. subscribe for alerts that are relevant to the career you wish to pursue.
      Update your profile to over 97% to make you more visible.
      We hope all these measures will improve your chances of being considered.

      ^TM

  56. Hi
    I have 10 years experience having worked with different and I have applied in jobs through various agents but Ihave never gotten response. Im a CPAK ,CIFA graduate and a bachelors of commerce degree in Finance.Please help me get A Job that is suitable to this qualification.

    • Hi Andrew,
      Thank you for your reading.
      The list below can shed some light on the possible reasons that might have led to your current predicament;
      Do you send applications to job adverts that match your skills?
      Have you updated your CV since last year?
      Do you write a customized cover letter for each application?
      The number of job seekers has gone higher since last year, making the talent pool larger and you have to ensure your CV stands out from the rest.
      Start by editing your CV to reflect all the skills and experience you have gained. subscribe for alerts that are relevant to the career you wish to pursue.
      Update your profile to over 97% to make you more visible.
      After you have reviewed your account and made the necessary amendments, you can now apply the latest jobs advertised based on your qualification through this link https://www.brightermonday.co.ke/search/jobs-in-banking-financial-services
      We hope all these measures will improve your chances of being considered.

      ^TM

    • Hi Lacey,

      We appreciate your support and for sharing your concern. We will put this into consideration. We will share your thoughts with our experts and if it’s something workable and aligns to our drive, we will let you know when to check it out on the blog. ^AN

    • You’re welcome Isaac.
      We endeavor to bring our readers relevant and practical tips.
      Keep it Brighter Monday for more enlightening career advice.

      ^TM

    • Hi Peter,

      Thank you for reading.
      Keep it Brighter Monday for more informative articles.

      ^TM

  72. Brighter Monday Team, this is brilliant advise. Most of us just looked at the zeroes behind the gross pay, i never thought of training as a package!!

    • Hi James,

      Thank you for reading.
      Its important to always consider whats significant.
      Stay tuned for more enlightening Career advice.

      ^TM

  74. A very powerful sharing there. I have benefited a great deal. Thanks a lot Brighter zone Monday team.
    Rev . Shadrack Kasinga.

  76. One more which is often much more valuable: stock options 😉
    Many companies around the world give stock options as an employee (highly valuable ones) retention incentive.

    • Hi Pk,

      Thank you for reading,
      Your thoughts and feedback on this is highly appreciated.

      ^TM

  79. This has always been my weakest point during interviews. Thenx for broadening my mind on the issue

    • You’re welcome Joan,
      We know now that are well equipped.
      Keep it here for more mind broadening articles.

      ^TM

  81. Thanks Brightermonday for this insightful piece. It is very helpful for those changing jobs or even new job seekers who might have various options.

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