How to ask for a pay rise

Only a fraction of people are primarily motivated by money. And it may surprise you to know that salary is not one of the main considerations for when it comes to getting a new job.

 

But finances are important and when businesses don’t get it right they upset and then lose staff.

Why? Because it comes down to feeling valued. You could well earn more money elsewhere. But if you feel valued then you are unlikely to seek a move.

Some companies are great at making their staff feel valued. They have regular salary reviews. They find other ways to reward you. Those little touches that make you feel part of something. But some companies need some gentle encouragement.

Whilst us Brits hate talking about money it beats feeling undervalued. It's a destructive emotion that only ends in bitterness. So be brave. Approach it right and you will either be successful or know exactly where you stand.

Why?

This is the first question you need to have a good answer to. Why do you deserve a pay rise? If you can’t justify it then your appeal is likely to fall on deaf ears. And you may damage your relationship with your boss. Get proof. Show them in figures why your performance justifies it. What improvements have you made? How have you contributed to the firm doing better? Make a logical, emotion free case and follow it up in writing.

What do you want?

You need to know what you are worth. Research the market and find out what other people at your level earn. But… make any request reasonable. Businesses are unlikely to move you from £30,000 to £40,000 no matter how good you are.

Approach it right

Do it in person at a good time. Book a slot in your manager’s diary but think about when they may be most receptive. Monday morning is not ideal. Thursdays or Fridays make more sense. People are in better moods and they have the weekend to collect their thoughts. But before you sit down with them prepare the ground. Tell them what you want to talk about.

Smile

Approach it like any negotiation. In a calm, concise manner backed up with facts. It may work, it may not. But keep a positive outlook both during and after. Don’t make ultimatums, don’t sulk, don’t make it awkward. Even if you decide to move on you will still have to work there for a period after the request.

Counter offer

If you like where you work give them the benefit of doubt before you make any decisions. If you have a problem, give them the chance to solve it. If they can't or won't then it makes your decision to move on easier. And prevents any counter offer shenanigans.