HOW TO NEGOTIATE A PAY RISE?
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13/09/2022
Negotiating a pay rise might be something you feel extremely comfortable with and if you do that’s great, for others it is a topic that makes them extremely uncomfortable and broaching the negotiation of a pay rise with your manager can drum up anxious and nervous feelings.
So with that in mind here are our top tips on how to not only negotiate a pay rise successfully but also to feel comfortable in doing so.
What to consider before asking for a pay rise?
What have you achieved in your role?
Has your role changed since you were hired/ had your last review? If so, your responsibilities may have expanded
Is your current role being paid at market rate, below market rate or above market rate?
The above questions help remove any emotive rationale, it is always best before you even start the conversation with your manager/ employer to ensure you have evidence and facts and research to further enhance your negotiation.
When is it appropriate to ask for a pay rise?
Many employers conduct annual reviews with their employees and as a result, often pay rises to go hand in hand with reviews. Outside of this, it is always wise to think about the timing of negotiating a pay rise, so when is it appropriate to ask for a pay rise?
At the time of your annual review, at a 12-month work anniversary or at the start of a new financial year
If your role has changed and the expectations on you have increased but your salary has not
How to approach the pay rise negotiation?
Make sure you approach the conversation prepared. Depending on your situation and why you are looking to negotiate a pay rise you need to have facts and proof to present to your employer as to why you are worthy of a pay rise. More so if you have a percentage increase or salary amount you think you are worth, then you also need to prove to your employer why you are worth that.
It is always wise to also show your employer your achievements with tangible proof but also to highlight your commitment to the organisation and your willingness to work as a team player- for many organisations that are just as important as achieving your own individual KPIs.
Another tip when approaching the negotiation is to ensure that your employer sees not only your past commitment as mentioned above but also your future commitment and willingness to contribute to the business.
Positive and engaging language about your commitment to continuing to support the business in its goals, also shows your employer that they are investing in your future journey with the organisation in committing to this pay rise.
What to avoid in pay rise negotiations?
Whilst there are many things you can do to positively present yourself in pay rise negotiations here are some of the pitfalls to avoid
Don’t make unjustified, or irrational requests
Avoid becoming aggressive or overly emotive in your negotiation- use facts
Don’t use threatening language or phrases
Negotiating a pay rise is always a tricky task, but by utilising the tips above you can ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible and hopefully in no time you will have secured yourself that all-important pay rise!
