Bill Gates Makes $865,114: He's Underpaid

The chairman of one of the most powerful companies in the world appears to be underpaid in relation to many of his peers at other software corporations. (Yes, I also know he owns 1.16 billion shares of Microsoft stock, making him one of the world's richest people.) Nevertheless, his annual salary and bonus are under market.

How do you keep abreast of salary ranges for the positions in your company? I have five surveys that equate salaries to job descriptions and titles, nationally, locally, and in comparable companies. Still, it is a challenge to make sure pay is equitable, motivating, and in the case of my clients, above market. How you pay people is a philosophical, as well as, a financial decision. Here are resources that will help you with pay decisions.

Tips for Determining a Motivating Salary
Salary and Compensation Trends for Forward Thinking Organizations
How Much Are You Worth?

When I research salaries online, I use Salary.com although I generally find their recommendations are quite high for my area.

Want to know more about Bill Gates and other software executives' salaries? Read the article: Microsoft's Gates, Ballmer each receive $865,114 in compensation