So you want a pay rise, huh? How badly? Are you willing to work harder, do better and aim higher, you know all that stuff? Well are you? Meh. Whatever. Actually none of that really matters. But it would be good to know how you feel on such topics.
This post is about asking for a pay rise right now because you do your job well and you deserve it. What’s the harm in asking, right? Most people don’t even ask. I’ve worked in offices and teams for a long time and almost nobody asks for a pay rise. Ever. They don’t or won’t ask for a pay rise and so they don’t get one.
So how you get a pay rise is to ask for one first and foremost. Be prepared, do you research and have notes about why you’re a valuable member of the team and an outline of your contribution to the business bottom line. Schedule an appointment to discuss it with the person you need to talk to, the one who can approve it. There’s no point having to go through three or four people IF you can avoid it. Your message is always best delivered by you.
And then, what if they say no?
Are you planning to throw a hissy fit of epic proportions and wail about being unappreciated and undervalued? Well that’s one plan. I suggest calmly thanking them for their consideration {maybe without the cute Katniss bow from the Hunger Games movie, that has a bit too much sass implied} and ask why. Is it a cost thing, are there improvement for you to make, or is there no good reason and maybe they should reconsider right then and there.
Hold up for a second, does asking why not freak you out a little?
It should. Most people feel a little awkward requesting feedback especially after being rejected. Which you have been to some degree. Your request has been at least. But it is an invaluable tool to move forward. Once you have the conversation regarding performance and whys etc ask when would be an appropriate time to bring this up again? 3 months, or 6? More or less? Make sure they know that you will be having this conversation again and are committed to getting what you want.
I’ve asked for a lot of pay rises. I’ve got a lot of pay rises. I also ask for full price when it comes to advertising and sponsored posts on this blog. Why? Because I set those prices based on value and as one of my favourite quotes of all time goes, it’s only in the absence of value people argue cost. So if you find yourself constantly in a position where you are having to explain the price {whether it be a wage or a cost for a sidebar ad} then know that you haven’t shown them why they should pay it yet. Show them that and you’re set. Show them that and you’ll never get a no.
Hi! I’m Suger; Chief Blogger at Suger Coat It. Blogging since 1901; love a casual ootd, taking photos + writing about things that irk or inspire me. I love wine and cheese, long days at the beach and spending time with my family. I make stuff for the internet; photos, create content, write copy and devise social media plans for personal brands, small businesses and bloggers. You know, living the sweet life.
government employee – local govt award set between councils and unions – set payrise each year until you max your grade…. and a award increase each year – so no need for that conversation here.
I find it really interesting that as long as you show up year after year you get paid more and that’s just the way it is. Do you have to meet criteria or reach targets or anything? You might find the conversation to all sorts of areas where you need to sell someone on your own value though.
yes – you do have to get a “good rating” to progress through the steps of your grade but its all I’ve known – I’ve pretty much always worked for government my entire working career. and I don’t need to have the conversation – i tell my boss almost daily that i am awesome and that i rock.
Haha. Love it, of course you do. Thanks for answering my question! I’m a curious cat some times.
Never had to do that. As an educator our pay raises (and pay cuts) are set by contract between the union and (in my case) the state or school district. It sucks sometimes.
Interesting to know! Apparently it’s similar here, though I haven’t heard of pay cuts in my lifetime.
We took almost a 10% pay cut over the last couple of years in furloughs and givebacks. We got some back but we still have been cut.
Oh no. It’s been a tough few years for you guys. Hopefully things are looking up.
i’ve only been at my current job for a few months, but these are excellent points to remember for the future
For sure! It also applies for negotiating salaries in the first place. Good luck in the new position.
Great points!
I believe in the “if you don’t ask, you don’t know adage”. A big believer of asking why &/or letting them know that you believe that you are worthy and will take on board what they have said and ask again in 3 months is fair.
Loved your point on VALUE – this really hit home, we all need to value what we do & believe in this Value taht we have set our selves to truly succeed
KP xx
Thank you! You have to see and be able to express your own worth before almost all other people will see it. For yourself, or for your brand, business or blog. It’s the best quote, I must look more into who said it. I live by that quote.
Although I’m not working anymore at least outside of the home, the points you make are excellent for applying to blog and business. Thanks Hun. X
You’re welcome. Glad to hear it!