How to correctly negotiate a pay rise

There are some key steps to making sure your negotiation for a pay rise will be more successful and some definite tactics to avoid. Here are our do’s and don’ts for approaching your employer for a salary increase.

DO come prepared: Work out your agenda behind deserving a pay rise, write it down and rehearse your reasons. Preparation will show your employer that you have taken time and consideration into your request and will help you to give a confident, constructed delivery. Make sure to have examples of your achievements or where you have expanded your job role with extra responsibilities and duties.

DO time your request: Whether you’ve just made a really impressive sale or successfully secured a new client, capitalising on the moment will make a request for a pay increase more likely to go in your desired direction. However make sure not to come across as arrogant or entitled, instead use your recent example of success to highlight your growth within the company.

DO be considerate of your employer: Make sure you are aware of your company’s context and can identify any obstacles that might jeopardise your chance of a pay rise such as recent budget cuts. If you’re asking for a pay rise at a high-stress time such as when there are imposing deadlines, your employer is probably less likely to meet your requests.

DON’T assume you deserve a pay rise: If you aren’t able to provide your employer with evidence of your progression then they might not be willing to increase your salary. Show them facts such as where you have saved the company money, where you have brought in more business or how you have introduced more efficient processes.

DON’T create an ultimatum: If you’re unable to provide solid reasons for a deserved salary increase don’t tell your employer that you could get more money from another company, or that you will look elsewhere for a job if you don’t receive the raise you’re asking for. Most employers value loyalty and encourage internal progression and this attitude suggests you do not share these values.

DON’T make it personal: If you’ve fallen on harder times, or are struggling financially, begging your boss for a pay rise using these reasons is not beneficial to your career or your employer. Focus on why you deserve a pay rise based on your work merit and achievements rather than why you need one for personal reasons.

For expert advice from the recruitment specialists on any aspect of your career, email consultants@1strecruit.co.uk or call 01534 875444.