Asking for more money at work can feel like an Oliver Twist scenario—standing with your empty bowl and mustering the courage to say, "Please, sir, I want some more."

But unlike the workhouse supervisors of Dickensian England, most managers are far more open to discussing your financial worth. In this blog, we'll delve into the do's and don'ts of asking for a pay rise, how to face your fears, and why it's crucial to negotiate with your manager before dusting off your CV or ringing up a recruiter.

Most managers expect salary discussions as part of career growth. To ease your fears, jot down your achievements and contributions to the company. This exercise will not only boost your self-confidence but also provide you with concrete talking points.

DO:

Do Your Research

• Knowledge is power. Look into industry salary benchmarks and evaluate where you stand. This will give you a solid foundation for your request.

Choose the Right Time

• Timing can make or break your case. Opt for a moment when you're not swamped with work, and your manager is not under pressure.

Be Prepared with Facts

• Numbers don't lie. Compile data that supports your request, such as performance metrics, completed projects, or any cost-saving measures you've implemented.

Be Clear and Specific

• Ambiguity is your enemy. Clearly outline what you're asking for, whether it's a specific percentage increase or a move to the next pay grade.

Show Enthusiasm for Your Role

• Let your passion shine through. Discuss your future plans within the company and how you aim to contribute further.

Be Open to Non-Financial Offers

• Money isn't everything although I know everyone is feeling the pinch at the moment. If a salary increase isn't possible, be open to other benefits like professional development courses or a better work-life balance.

Ask for Feedback

• Open the floor for discussion. Ask your manager what steps you can take to improve your performance and increase your value to the company.

Follow Up

• Don't let the conversation end in the meeting room. Send a thank-you email summarising what was discussed and the agreed-upon next steps.

Don't:

Don't Be Overly Emotional

• Maintain a professional demeanour. Emotional appeals rarely work in a business setting.

Don't Ultimatum Unless You Mean It

• Ultimatums can be risky. Make sure you're prepared for any outcome if you decide to go this route.

Don't Compare Yourself to Co-workers

• Stick to your own track record. Bringing others into the conversation can complicate matters.

Don't Be Vague

• Specificity is key. Instead of saying you've done 'good work,' provide examples that demonstrate your contributions.

Don't Forget to Listen

• This is a dialogue, not a monologue. Your manager's input can offer valuable insights into your career development.

Don't Neglect Timing

• Avoid asking for a raise during company-wide budget cuts or downturns. Your timing should align with the company's financial health.

The Importance of Negotiation

Negotiation is more than a transaction; it's a strategic discussion. It provides an opportunity to align your career trajectory with the company's goals. Being open to counter-offers, such as additional responsibilities for more pay or alternative benefits, can lead to a more fulfilling work experience.

When to Consider Other Opportunities

If you've tried all avenues and still find yourself at a standstill, it may be time to explore new horizons. However, before you jump ship, ensure you've done everything possible to improve your current situation. This includes multiple rounds of negotiation and seeking additional feedback.

A big BUT



Before you start updating your CV or reaching out to a recruiter, it's crucial to have a clear and candid conversation about your salary expectations with your current employer. Here's why:

Clarity of Mind

When you're clear about your worth and what you're looking for, you're less likely to be swayed or influenced by external factors, such as a recruiter who might steer you towards roles that don't necessarily align with your career goals. Knowing your value within your current organisation can serve as a benchmark for evaluating other opportunities. And actually, it really is helpful to us if you are very clear in what you do want.

Professional Integrity

Accepting a counter-offer after you've engaged with another employer or recruiter can reflect poorly on your professional integrity. It can give the impression that you were using the job offer as a bargaining chip, which can harm your reputation not just with your current employer but also within your broader professional network.

Wasted Time and Resources

The recruitment process is time-consuming and costly for employers. If you accept a counter-offer after going through multiple rounds of interviews with a prospective employer, this can leave a bad impression and may even result in you being blacklisted for future opportunities with that company.

Future Career Prospects

Switching jobs is not just about salary; it's a career move that should align with your long-term goals. If you accept a counter-offer without fully considering this, you may find yourself in a role that doesn't offer the career progression or job satisfaction you seek. This can lead to job-hopping, which can be a red flag for future employers.

Strained Relationships

Accepting a counter-offer can strain your relationship with your current employer. They may question your loyalty moving forward, which could impact your career progression within the company.

Before you consider jumping ship, make sure you've done everything possible to negotiate your worth within your current role. It's not just about getting a better deal; it's about making a well-informed decision that aligns with your career aspirations and maintains your professional integrity.

Summary

The fear of asking for a pay rise is a common but surmountable obstacle. Far from being a Dickensian ordeal, most managers are open to discussing your financial worth as part of your career growth. Do your research and choose the right time, and by having a calm and reasoned discussion and avoiding emotional appeals and ultimatums, you may well get the outcome you are looking for.

Embrace the value of negotiation as a strategic tool for aligning your career goals with the company's objectives. If you find yourself at an impasse even after exhaustive negotiation, it may be time to explore new opportunities—but only after you've done everything possible to improve your current situation. So go ahead, and muster the courage to ask for that "more" you deserve; you might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Best of luck, and may your bowl always be full!

if you want more advice, we are happy to hear from you at 02031549423 or info@crucial-people.com