I worked for a restaurant for maybe 8 months. I did the interview, where they stated they start at $16/HR. I told them I don't get out of bed for less than $18. I told them I'd do a stage(working interview) show my skills, work ethic, etc. Stage went great, they loved everything about me told me they wanted me for the lead position. I said, “Sure, I'll start at $17.” They countered at $16.50 and I told them if I start for that I want to be at $18.50 by my 3 month evaluation. They said that was very doable. I start working for them, helping out the crew on quicker and better techniques, helping expand their food knowledge and other general things inside the restaurant. I brought in a lot of ideas and changes that everyone loved. My first week there i had to thwart a problem between 2 cooks and did it quickly and professionally and the owners loved the way I handled myself and other tasks. I did this for a month, then backed off letting the chef take back over, thinking they had seen what I could do. 3 month evaluation time, they insult me with a $0.50 raise telling me I need to tighten up the crew and show more leadership qualities. I told them I did for a month straight and now it's the chefs turn until they decide to pay me more, because I don't work for free. Since they only wanted to pay me $17/hr I gave them a $17/hr employee. They didn't like that and ended up firing me. Well, I switched industries and went to work for the railroad, good money, good benefits, great switch. Fuck em!