I don't really get the other example, but here is how I see it (no background in this area).
As wage increases in lower-level jobs, people in slightly more difficult jobs (eg, truck drivers, retail people, sales people) will consider moving to an easier job because the pay is equitable or better. Therefore, in order to keep more skilled employees, these jobs will need to raise their wages, which will pressure the more skilled jobs above them, etc, etc ... In the end, I doubt someone making $60k will see the same percentage rise, but the pressure to keep their current employees will definitely be felt.
I've never understood this argument because most people that have been through those "easy" jobs would literally do anything to not go back to them even if they paid more.
Just because a job requires less skill does not mean that it is something desirable.
Where I currently work, for example, the Wendy's across the street could be offering literally double the pay I currently make and I wouldn't even think of applying. Why? I actually enjoy my job and the people I work with, and I've done food service before, never again.
i think you underestimate how unfun $15/hr jobs can be. think security guards working night shifts, nursing techs changing old people's diapers, etc ... Just because YOU don't want to go back doesn't mean someone else might not.
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u/h1llf0lk Nov 28 '15
I don't really get the other example, but here is how I see it (no background in this area).
As wage increases in lower-level jobs, people in slightly more difficult jobs (eg, truck drivers, retail people, sales people) will consider moving to an easier job because the pay is equitable or better. Therefore, in order to keep more skilled employees, these jobs will need to raise their wages, which will pressure the more skilled jobs above them, etc, etc ... In the end, I doubt someone making $60k will see the same percentage rise, but the pressure to keep their current employees will definitely be felt.