Job Quote by Stephen J. Dubner
“If we want politics to be the kind of arena where you're attracting and encouraging really competent people who do a job well because that's what they're supposed to do, then you have to pay them a salary that's commensurate with that.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "Freakonomics" by Stephen J. Dubner, 2005 (chapter on labor markets)
Competent workers need salaries that reflect their skill and responsibility; otherwise talent drifts away.
In simple terms: Pay matches competence.
Offer fair, competitive pay.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government hiring
- private sector recruitment
- non‑profit staffing
- tech industry
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does salary affect job performance?
- What are alternatives to high salaries for talent?
Budget constraints may limit salary adjustments.