Feeling the squeeze and struggling to make ends meet? One way forward is to bag ourselves a sweet pay rise, and it can be done, if we only ask…
Whatever job we do, asking for a pay rise can be nerve-wracking. But done right, it can be one of the most rewarding conversations we can ever have. So let’s stop dreaming and start asking, with some top tips on getting the pay rise we deserve.
1. Know Our Worth (And Prove It)
Before we book that meeting with our manager, we must gather our evidence. Research what people in similar roles are earning — websites like Glassdoor offer UK wage rates across all sorts of different jobs. If we are underpaid compared to market rates, that’s a strong starting point.
More importantly, we should prepare a clear summary of how we’ve made a difference to the company. Highlight achievements, problems solved, and any additional tasks we’ve taken on.
2. Timing is Everything
We should pick our moment carefully. Raising the subject after a major win (like a really successful day in a shop or restaurant) is ideal or during annual performance reviews, when salary budgets are typically under review.
We should avoid asking when the company is clearly going through financial difficulties or right after our manager returns from holiday. If we’ve been taking on more work without a salary adjustment, we should flag it early before resentment builds and our motivation starts to slip.
3. Rehearse — But Don’t Sound Scripted
Confidence comes from being ready. We should practise what we’re going to say out loud, ideally with a friend or even in front of a mirror. Keep it professional, short and positive. Focus on why we deserve a raise, not why we need one.
Try this:
“Over the last 12 months, I’ve delivered X, taken on Y, and contributed to Z. I believe my performance and responsibilities have grown beyond my current salary, and I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation to reflect that.”
4. Be Ready for Pushback — Or a “No”
Not every pay rise request ends in a rise. But a “no” doesn’t have to be the end of the story. We can ask what we can do to get to a point where a pay rise would come:
“Can we agree on clear goals or milestones that would justify a pay increase next time round?”
Even if a raise isn’t possible now, we could negotiate alternative benefits: more holiday days, a one-off bonus, flexible hours, or training opportunities — all of which can make a difference to our job long term.
5. Know When to Walk Away
If we have consistently delivered and still can’t get recognition, a pay rise or otherwise, it might be time to look for a new job. We should not threaten to leave, but keep our options open. Sometimes, a new role is the only way to get the pay we deserve.
Final Thought:
Asking for a raise can feel uncomfortable but in a world of rising costs and widening pay gaps, standing up for ourselves isn’t just brave, it’s essential.
Image: Shutterstock/Jacob Lund
