Features: How to negotiate a pay rise

Negotiating a pay rise can be one of the toughest tasks to undertake whilst in employment. In fact, the fear of unsettling our current work situation can be enough to deter many of us from exploring the idea altogether

Up to 90% of workers have not received a pay rise for two years or more, according to Reed's 2013 Salary and Market Insight. So, news that the UK economy is returning to growth will make many workers feel confident that now could be the time to raise the subject of pay with their employer.

If you feel you deserve a pay rise, it is important to make sure you approach the matter in the right way, and in a manner that will leave everyone with a positive outcome. The steps below can help you achieve this…

Request a meeting

The easiest way to start the negotiations is to ask for some time with your manager to discuss your performance. Try to allow yourself time beforehand to get well prepared.

Although it can sometimes be intimidating, always remember that a meeting is a two-way communication. Whatever happens, you can argue your case and answer any of their doubts.

Do your research

Make sure you're prepared to justify your worth. Consider some of your recent achievements, the knowledge and experience you bring to your role, and why now is a suitable time for a pay rise.

You should also research the average salaries in your industry for the job that you do. Look at job adverts for similar positions and visit types of jobs to check salary and conditions for hundreds of roles.

Get your timing right

Unfortunately, not everyone is entitled to a pay rise just because they want one. Before you approach the subject, take a step back and ask yourself the following questions:

• When was your last pay increase? If it was within the last year, why do you warrant another one so soon?
• Has your performance justified asking for more money? For instance, have you been consistently hitting your targets? Do you outperform your colleagues?

The best time to negotiate a rise is after a period of consistent high performance which will make you the obvious candidate for an increase.

 

Sell yourself

You'll need to justify the reasons why your employer should invest more of their budget in you, so be prepared to sell yourself. Play to your strengths, and make a note of your successes.

Demonstrate your contribution to the company for the last and next six months, whether it's through generating revenue, applying your expertise or showing your dedication.

Always remember that your boss may not be the final decision maker, so writing your case down in a clear and concise manner will help them to communicate your request to the relevant parties.

Pay rises are a business decision, so make sure you can prove to your employer what you'll provide in return. Offering to increase your responsibilities, promising a greater output and taking on other daily duties are all good ways to prove that your pay rise is good value for money.

Don't just think about the money

Sometimes, there are genuine (and simple) reasons why you may not get a pay rise, such as a lack of available funds. But it needn't all be about the money. Just because your boss has said no, it doesn't mean you can't enquire about non-financial benefits. For instance, you could ask for more paid time-off, a better car-allowance or another benefit, such as subsidised travel costs or gym membership.

You may find further success by exploring the possibility of funding towards training and development. Not only will you enhance your skills and, ultimately, your market worth, but with your new-found knowledge, you'll become a more valuable asset to your employer.

Stay on good terms

If you haven't been able to successfully negotiate a pay rise, you may feel undervalued by your employer. But, at the very least, you should attempt to leave the door open for approaching the subject again in six months' time.

Even if you decide to look for another job, when it comes to your existing employer, you should always remain professional. Not only will you want them to write you a glowing reference, but who knows when your paths may cross again in the future? Many positions and industries can be quite close knit, so make sure you don’t burn your bridges, whatever the outcome.