[intricatedetail]

> "we've done research and we believe we actually do pay comparatively in this market segment".

Sounds like market fixing and likely illegal, however I can imagine poorly paid employee wouldn't be able to afford a lawsuit.

[rantwasp]

the 'poorly paid' employees can definitely afford a lawsuit. here's the thing though: if you know what the situation is and continue to work there who is to blame?

also, most stories I've heard is that the sub-optimal comp comes bundled with pretty good WLB. So maybe if you were to double the number of hours worked and double the comp M$ would blow other BigTech out of the water. Maybe this is the play (half the money for half the effort) and everyone knows it.

[intricatedetail]

Do you base affordability on what? The type of lawyer average employee can afford will be easily crushed by a top law firm with virtually unlimited funds.

The fact that one can change job shouldn't enable companies to continue like this.

[rantwasp]

my point was that the people know the deal they are getting. if they still work there they are okay with it.

to play devil’s advocate (from a top lawyer firm): how can one force a private entity to pay a certain wage that is way over what the minimum wage is?

[intricatedetail]

People have no choice if all companies are doing same thing.

The minimum wage should be tied to company revenue to reflect the value workers generate. I mean revenue, not profit, because those companies are masters at hiding profits to avoid tax.

[rantwasp]

if the compensation is artificially kept low yes, this should be (and is?) illegal. the fact that there are other places nearby that pay really well tells me that, at a minimum, people have options.