Gap went for fairer pay even though the rest of the country wasn't really doing it? Cool.
Because companies in America just plain aren't required by law to pay employees more than minimum wage, many just plain don't. These companies take advantage of the situation, and while their corporate profits go up, employee pay does not.
Recently, Gap joined some other great companies like Costco, Whole Foods, and In-N-Out Burger in voluntarily raising wages for their employees. Unlike some other large retailers, these companies don't want their employees' wages subsidized by the government.
WAIT — WHAAAAT? Yeah, that's right, big companies that don't pay their employees a decent rate are essentially setting up those employees to rely on welfare to make up the difference. (McDonald's and Walmart employees are on welfare BIG TIME, BTW.)
Try thinking of it this way: When companies pay their employees more, they are unburdening our nation's debt. Following that logic, if all companies paid their employees a higher hourly rate, the United States would have less debt and happier people. You go, Gap.
If you're interested in why and how Gap raised their minimum wage, you can read up on that here and here, but I've summarized some of the best points below:
- When the minimum wage is raised, it gives people more money to spend. That equals increased demand for goods, which equals more demand for jobs.
- When the minimum wage is raised, companies (like Gap) can retain staff longer, which actually brings costs down. Training new people can get expensive when you have to do it a lot! Plus, they get to keep working with amazing people. Those amazing people get more job satisfaction.
- When the minimum wage is raised, employees work harder and are happier. Everyone wins.
- And who knows? Gap's story might inspire other companies to step up, too. If you're interested in what is considered a living wage in your town, you can find out here.
Here's a bit more about why Upworthy thinks this particular thing Gap is doing is really worth highlighting:CLICK HERE.
If you think it's a step in the right direction, there're little sharey guys right down there. It's up to you. I would be just as excited if you did a happy dance for fairer pay, too.
Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
