A few books can change your life. This is probably not one of them. However, if you read it, you will better understand that pay matter. After all, you can’t pick up a newspaper. Power up a computer, or read a blog today without someone talking about pay. The Great Recession (our term) has had huge ramifications for pay. Some folks have had their hours cut or pay reduced. Why? Because it’s a more effective way to cut costs without laying off workers. Workers still left on payroll after all the recent fcost-cutting moves are the best. Layoffs would mean cutting the heart of the organization. Surveys suggest workers faced with layoffs or reduction in hours almost always will choose shorter workweeks at least in the short run. The recession also has focused attention on executive compensation.