How to ask for a raise at work?

If you are thinking about asking for a raise from work but don’t know how to start then we are here to help. Talking finances can be an awkward conversation to bring up, but negotiating your salary can be important and is often, the only was to ensure you are being paid for your value. As the saying goes, if you don’t ask, you don’t get!

With the cost of living going up many people are finding themselves unable to live off of their current salaries.

You are essentially, asking the business to give you more cash, so you have to do it right to get success. How financially healthy is the company? Have you been achieving within your role? It can help to prepare before you go in to the conversation.

 

How to know if you should be given a raise?

  • You have taken on more responsibilities and achieved with them.
  • Your job role is vastly different to what you applied for.
  • You have recently been doing well e.g. meeting or exceeding targets and your manager/supervisor is pleased with you.
  • Since you started you have received additional qualifications and taken extra courses which benefit your role and the company.
  • You have not had a pay rise within the last 12 months already.
  • Your salary does not match the role you are doing in the area. You can check salary calculators or check on platforms like indeed to see what others are earning in similar positions.
  • Your salary does not match that of those working in your department.
  • You have worked there for over a year already.

 

What you should plan

  • Research what your salary is in other companies in your area so you are aware of what you could potentially be earning.
  • Plan what your argument is as of why you have earned a raise.
  • Have a figure in mind in case your manager asks you.

 

Be prepared for...

  • Your manager to take time before they say yes. Your manager may need to review your request with the business and finances before they agree, you could plan to check in with them two weeks later if they don’t come back to you.
  • Negotiation plays a bit part in the topic of salary. It is advised to request slightly more than you expect so that there is room to negotiate as your manager may bring this number down.
  • Alternative perks could be offered in replacement of a pay increase. This could include flexible working, pension contributions, healthcare, travel allowances and more. You could also ask if they are willing to invest in your development and provide funding for a new course and qualification that could help both parties involved.
  • Your manager could say no, if they do, take this as an opportunity to ask what you should be doing to earn a raise, then you will know if this is an option within this company.