My Journey of Compensation Growth: Achieving Double-Digit Hikes in Less Than a Year

As a seasoned sales professional with 17 years of experience, my career journey with a single company has been a testament to the importance of commitment, hard work, and professional upskilling. Alongside my consistent efforts, I have experienced significant salary hikes, the highest of which was a 225% increase in a mere two years. My story is not just one of numerical progression, but also of personal and professional growth.

My Career Trajectory

I began my professional life at a BS 1.2 lacs monthly salary in 2003, transitioning to a better opportunity a mere two months later with a jump to 3.5 lacs in 2006. This leap over 70% in such a short period of time brought a fresh perspective and enthusiasm for my career. From 2006 to 2023, my gross salary has steadily increased to 45 lacs a year, a growth of over 1250% over the span of 17 years. This trajectory is reflective of the consistent value I provide to my employer, alongside strengths such as adaptability, reliability, and a strong work ethic.

Recent Promotions and Offerings

My most recent significant growth came on August 2021 when I joined a company at 4 LPA. My first hike in March 2022 was a 25% increase, which I never expected. This hike was a pleasant surprise, igniting my further commitment and passion for the role. My journey with this company continued through a series of personal and professional milestones. November 2022 marked a significant step in my career when my HR expressed a willingness to offer me an 8 LPA salary, surpassing my original starting position.

Driven by the value I received from my current company, I chose to retain my position over a potentially better-paying opportunity at a Big4 firm that offered 10.6 LPA. Instead, I opted to advance with my current company, which eventually offered a 13 LPA hike, indicating a 225% increase over the initial salary. My continued strong performance resulted in an even greater offer of 15 LPA, which I declined for another internal offer of 13 LPA that promised further growth.

Dilemma and Future Plans

Now, confronted with an even more significant offer of 13 LPA, I am in a dilemma. On one hand, the opportunity to advance is appealing. On the other, the unique value and sense of growth I have experienced with my current company are equally compelling. My options are to either switch to the new company or continue with my current one, weighing both the financial and the non-monetary benefits of each choice.

Parallel Professional Growth

While my salary has grown significantly, my professional development has been equally rewarding. My journey also involved success in several competitive exams, including the RRB PO exam, where I cleared on January 1, 2023, with a gross package of approximately 8 LPA. Shortly after, I cleared the IBPS PO exam on April 1, 2023, securing a position at Union Bank of India with a 10 LPA package. By April 19, 2023, I successfully cleared the SBI PO exam with a gross package of 13-16 LPA.

On June 2, 2023, I achieved another milestone by getting selected for the position of FCI AG3 Accountant, with a gross package of approximately 7.2 lakhs per annum. These parallel achievements underscore my dedication and aptitude in multiple career paths, suggesting a strategic plan for future growth and development.

My journey with salary hikes and job satisfaction highlights the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and alignment with one's values. Whether I choose to stay or move on, the experiences and growth I have achieved will undoubtedly shape my future career choices and contributions.

If you have any questions or comments about my journey, feel free to ping me.