Reading one of the latest survey’s about the expected increases in salaries over the coming year [click here to read] we thought you might appreciate a few handy hints to think about when it comes to negotiating a pay rise.
There are ways of doing this well.
TIPS CHECKLIST
1) It’s not a matter of just asking or demanding. It is more a matter of showing that you deserve a pay rise. This is where you emphasise the value you add to the organisation.
Assess what you have been doing. – have you:
- Earned extra revenue for the company /saved the company dollars?
- Received great customer feedback?
- Met tight deadlines?
- Suggested solutions or improvements?
- Demonstrated you have used your initiative or worked extra hours voluntarily?
Make sure you prepare well and have your facts ready.
2) Look to ‘beef up’ your job by taking on more. By adding more responsibility you are positioning yourself for an increase. What else could you add to your role?
3) It’s a good idea to have a reasonable figure in mind. Companies are still under pressure so make sure the figure you are thinking about is fair. Check with agencies to gain market information to help you or look at recent on-line salary surveys
4) Keep emotions out of the picture – its best to be prepared and deal with the facts.
5) Don’t threaten to quit. This could end badly. You can always decide what you might want to do in your own good time. Perhaps if turned down, ask what you need to do to increase your salary – what advice do they have for you?
6) Ideally the best way to tackle the subject is in a meeting. A meeting means two-way communication that will allow you to present your case answer questions and overcome objections on the spot. When you request the meeting it would be wise to let your employer or manager know the nature of the discussion.
Asking for a pay raise might not be easy for you just as it isn’t for most. Even when you muster the courage, there are no ‘magic pills’ that will guarantee your success – but by being prepared and conducting the process in a professional manner, you will most certainly dramatically increase your chances.
