Sunday, August 5, 2018

Joined at a Lower Grade Than Your Experience?

Updated September 2026: in 2018 I wrote about joining a new company at a basic grade despite more than five years of experience, and being treated like a fresher before earning my place. I have rewritten it into advice for anyone who accepts a lower grade to switch jobs.

I left my second company because there was little learning and no recognition, and I accepted a moderate hike and a basic role at the new one. On joining, I was treated as a fresher and asked to learn from graduates with a year of experience. A colleague who joined with me at a higher grade was given priority in the team, and at one point I felt more disappointed than ever. After a long stretch of hard work on the projects I was given, I became one of the top performers in the team.

Why would anyone accept a lower grade?

To get out of a role with no growth, to move into a new domain, or because the new company maps experience to grades differently. It can be a sensible trade, but it helps to be clear about it at the start.

What should you agree before joining at a lower grade?

The reason for the grade: in writing, if possible.
A review point: when your grade will be looked at again, and on what basis.
The work you will do: a basic grade with meaningful work is very different from a basic grade with basic tasks.

How do you get recognised faster?

Deliver on the first projects you are given, even small ones, and make the results visible. Share short updates with your manager. Help the people you are asked to learn from, since goodwill in the team is noticed. Keep a record of your contributions for the first appraisal.

How should you handle being treated as junior?

Treat the learning period as short and deliberate. Learn the internal tools and processes quickly, then start offering what your earlier experience gives you. Avoid comparing yourself openly with a colleague on a higher grade; let the work make the case.

When should you walk away?

If the review point passes with no change and no clear reason, and the work stays basic, the trade has not paid off. At that point, your improved track record is useful when you look elsewhere.