The 2009 Copier Careers Technician Salary Survey, published in the June issue of ENX Magazine, reveals that qualified copier technicians remain in demand despite high levels of unemployment in other industries.

"There's a real feeling of panic in the general economy," says Paul Schwartz, president of Copier Careers. "But I just don't sense that in the copier industry. It's very stable. When the economy is good, the copier industry doesn't always do as well as other industries. On the other hand, when the economy takes a nosedive, the copier industry doesn't do as badly....People are anxious and they're concerned, and rightfully so. But there isn't that sense of fear that you find in other sectors."

Dave Grandelis, director of recruiting for Copier Careers, agrees that the current employment situation for techs is favorable. But, he adds, the advantage is limited to technicians with the right training. "There's a definite niche for factory-trained technicians," he says. "They're very employable.....[But] they've got to get the necessary certifications and make sure that they're keeping up with the technology. If they can do that, they're going to have a great career."

The salary survey, which reflects the responses of 3,872 technicians working in the industry, also found that the techs' overall level of job satisfaction skyrocketed in 2009, due largely to the perception that times are tough and jobs are scarce.

To read the full 2009 Technician Salary Survey, visit www.copiercareers.com/salary_surveys.shtml. And while you're there, don't forget to participate in the 2010 Salary Survey: http://www.copiercareers.com/salary_survey/salarysurveys_form.shtml.
 

According to a recent survey by Mercer, as many as 67% of U.S. employers plan to raise employee pay within the next six months. As the economy begins to recover and companies look forward to more profitable days, they'll be ready to invest in their most valuable asset: people. If your employer hasn't announced upcoming pay raises, that doesn't mean it isn't in the cards for you. But it might mean that you'll have to ask for what you want. To help you do that, we've compiled the following tips.

1. Let your boss know you understand the company's situation. Even though the economy may be turning around, many companies are still fretting over their finances. Make it clear that you sympathize with the company's need to protect its bottom line. But also be clear about your value to the company, and about how your continued efforts will contribute to its success.

2. Document your recent achievements. Your boss is busy. Don't assume that she has been paying attention to your accomplishments. Instead, let her know what you've been up to. Whenever possible, quantify your achievements in terms of pennies saved, dollars earned, or productivity increased. If you can prove your worth in concrete terms, she'll be better able to justify a pay raise.

3. If your duties have increased, say so. Layoffs or hiring freezes often mean that existing employees end up doing more work for the same pay. Are staffing shortages requiring you to work longer and harder to keep things running smoothly? If so, make sure the boss knows it.

4. Be willing to take on new projects or responsibilities. In times like these, raises will often come with strings attached. Be ready to accept that more money may also require more work.

5. Be open to alternative forms of compensation. While some companies are still unable (or unwilling) to raise salaries, they may be willing to increase commissions, provide performance bonuses, or allot extra vacation days.

6. Remember that "no" only means "no for now." If your boss turns down your request for a raise, ask to schedule another performance review in three or six months. By then, she may be in a position to reconsider.

7. You'll never get what you don't ask for. Sure, asking the boss for a raise is nerve-racking. Will she say no? Maybe. No matter what, it's always worth it to ask.

Last month, we asked our readers if they had trouble saying no to their bosses. The results were split, with 53% of our 140 respondents saying yes, and 47 percent saying no. Based on the feedback we received, however, it sounds like most people are content to do as they're told...at least until this economy perks up. Reader comments included:

"In this employment environment I just say 'yes, sir'."

"Yes is the new black."

"If you set boundaries from day one, the boss will know what the answer is going to be if he or she asks for something unreasonable. Also, if you have complete confidence in your ability to meet your goals, you shouldn't feel obligated to say yes all the time."

"In this economy, I do whatever is asked of me."

"Say no to your boss, and say hi to the door!"

"I do what I'm asked, and then I ask if I can do more. I'm just happy to have a job."

"Saying 'no' can be like asking for an order. If you can't do it, then you will get run over. Nice guys finish last."

"I always tell them what I think and then reason with them on the best direction to take. But, the final responsibility being theirs, I will do what I am asked. If it isn't right, it's their neck, not mine."

"In the last 25 years working for my dealership, I have never been asked to do anything unreasonable for the company, nor have I asked anyone to do something that would be considered unreasonable."

If you didn't depend on your employer for health insurance, would it be easier for you to change jobs?

- Yes.
- No.