Even though we learned a lot of cool stuff in school like playing the recorder and how to draw a parabola using the parallelogram method (advanced maths, anyone?), there's still a lot of stuff they failed to teach us that proved to actually be quite critical in adult life. Like, how to do your taxes or how to change a tyre.
The case in point today, boys and girls, is how to ask for a pay rise. It's completely reasonable to ask for a little increase in your salary if you've been at your company for a little while and you think you're doing a really good job there. But a lot of people get kind of embarrassed and shy and feel totally awkward about asking their boss for a little more mulah. But you shouldn't – people get pay rises all the time and the only way you're going to get and earn what you want is by asking for it. You can't just wait around hoping it'll happen.
So here's what to do, according to experts.
1. Check out what others in your position get
Google what the benchmark salary for the particular role you have in your industry is – the information is there and knowing what's reasonable as well as knowing your own worth is important for you to back yourself up.
2. Don't do it over email
Well, this should be kind of obvious. Always broach any kind of important conversation face to face if you want to be respected and taken seriously, because asking for something from behind the safety of a screen makes you look kind of cowardly.
3. But do give a heads up to your manager
Flick them a message saying that you'd like to meet to talk about your performance and that you'd like to discuss a pay rise. Start the conversation early so your boss can see how hard you're working and so they're not totally taken by surprise and say "no" as an immediate response.
4. Consider the timing
Think about when the budgets are laid out or put out your request while you're still basking in the glow of some big win you've made for the company. And don't wait until it's your annual review because budgets for pay rises are usually set before then, so you'll be too late. Your boss' schedule and his relative mood should also be taken into consideration – if they're really stressed and under time pressure they'll be less lenient to your request.
5. Don't be too greedy
Anything waaay higher than what you currently earn will likely insult the company and imply that you lack credibility, so be ambitious... but stay reasonable too.
6. Bring the evidence
Be totally confident in all the brilliant stuff you've done for the company by listing off key achievements, statistics, new initiatives or clients you've brought in for the business and show that you're an integral and indispensable asset to the company. Show off your successes, but also remember to outline all the amazing things you'll do for them in the future – proving your worth and justifying the pay rise.
7. Write a script and practice
Don't mention that you're signing a lease for a swanky new flat and your thing for expensive sneakers is getting out of hand and that's why you need the extra dosh. No, write out a speech that highlights your value, your gratitude for the job, and that you think you've outgrown your old salary. Then practice in front of the mirror or to a friend to make it easier to say when it counts.
8. Let them speak
Don't ramble and try to fill silences for the sake of it. Pause to wait for their reaction, and ask if they need any more information that can help you sell the pay rise.
And however your conversation goes, just know that it's never going to be a simple yes or no answer. Be prepared to negotiate a price – maybe you'll get 6% more now, and an additional 3% in six months time after you've proved you can work a little harder. And if they say no, then try and get yourself some other benefits/compensation, or otherwise hold your head up, keep working hard, and you can always ask again next year. Work hard, friends, and ask for the pay you deserve.
