Getting Paid for Training at Your Job
Training is often a necessary part of any job. It helps you to become more familiar with workplace procedures, perfects your skill set, and can even open up opportunities for promotion. But what happens when the training is over and you’re still waiting for your first paycheck? You can be sure that you won’t always get paid for training, especially not right away.
Who Generally Gets Paid for Training?
It depends on your particular job and the background of the employer. Generally, hourly wage positions are expected to receive payment for training hours on the same wage they will receive once they start working regularly. That’s because hourly-wage positions may have a large time commitment for the training, and you wouldn’t be expected to work those hours unpaid.
Who Generally Does Not Get Paid for Training?
If you are in a salaried position, chances are you will not get paid for training. Salaried employees are typically expected to spend additional time doing training and often receive extra benefits that make it worth their while to take on the extra time commitment. That being said, there is always the possibility that you could negotiate a small stipend for the training, but this is not common.
How Can You Make Up For Not Being Paid?
The following are some tips to help make up for not getting paid for training at a job:
- Ask to be reimbursed for associated expenses: You may not get paid directly for your training, but some employers will reimburse you for associated costs such as travel expenses, meals, and materials. Ask your employer if such reimbursement is possible.
- Negotiate a higher salary: It may be possible to negotiate a higher starting salary if you can demonstrate that you spent a lot of time on the training course. Employers may be willing to increase your salary once you have completed the training and proven your added value.
- Look for additional opportunity: Though you may not get paid directly for your training, employers may offer certificate programs or other incentives that can help you down the road. Ask your employer what options are available in terms of additional education or recognition for completing the training course.
Though you may not be paid for the training, you can still reap the benefits. Training is an important part of any job, so take the time to invest in yourself and make the most out of the experience.