All you need to know before advocating for a pay rise for the first time
University of Glasgow Careers, Employability & Opportunity
By Ann Duff , Careers & Employability Manager
A few weeks ago, I was invited to be on BBC Radio Scotland as part of a conversation about the cost of living, specifically to comment on “how to ask for a pay rise”. I thought you might like to hear my advice (in case you don’t listen to BBC Radio Scotland Drivetime).
It’s perfectly feasible that as a student or early careerist, you’ll find yourself in a position that you think merits an increase in salary, and you can ask at any time for a salary review. The overarching thing to always remember is approach professionally and strategically following these steps.
Get your ducks in a row
You need to prepare a pitch to present to your manager. You don’t want to be doing this on the hoof, thinking and talking at the same time. You need to have facts and evidence.
Ask yourself “Why am I deserving of a rise?”
This is the evidence you’re going to present. It might be that you’ve taken on extra responsibility or a project. You might’ve accomplished something very special that singled you out for praise. Whatever it is, be specific and think about why this is above and beyond what your employer expects of you.
Research salary trends
You can do this using Prospects’ job profiles , under the “Salary” section. You can also use Glassdoor’s Salaries and Compensation checker by inputting your job title and geographical area to get an average salary. Be brave and go a little bit higher for your starting negotiation but don’t be unrealistic.
Practice your pitch
Practice your pitch to a pal, relative or yourself in the mirror! The first time you hear what this sounds like should not be in your meeting. Give yourself time to prepare, practice and ultimately, perform.
Don’t ambush
Nobody likes to be blindsided and remember the top overarching principle: be professional.
Send an email to your manager asking for a meeting to discuss your performance and salary. Be upfront and explicit about the purpose of the meeting but don’t lay out your pitch just yet. If you have scheduled appraisal meetings, use them. They’re a perfect opportunity to have this type of discussion.
Sell, sell, sell
Practice your pitch one more time
Finalise what you’re going to say with gusto!
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Dress for business
Make sure you look the part for whatever is appropriate for your industry. Some even say “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have”.
Tap into positive body language
Look the person in the eye. This shows confidence and self-belief. If you believe what you’re saying, they’re more likely to believe it too.
Create rapport by subtly mirroring their body language and tone. This is a subtle way for you to both feel comfortable and that you are on the same page.
Be prepared for them to negotiate
They will definitely negotiate. Return to your research and evidence as to why you should get the full amount you are asking for. Don’t accept the first offer – ask them to give you reasons as to why the full amount is not possible.
If they say no
If they say no, ask:
End things on a good note
Always thank them for their time and having the conversation with you, no matter the outcome. Professionally, it’s good practice to not burn bridges. You’ll have many difficult conversations; some will go your way, some won’t. It’ll probably work out better for you reputationally to be gracious.
Write them an email covering the following points:
Good luck! It’s not always easy for all of us to have these conversations, but fortune does indeed favour the brave!
Other resources
Creative Careers Week : Learn how to launch your career in the creative industries by joining events from Monday, 4 March to Friday, 8 March
Graduate Job Searching Masterclass : Discover how to find graduate roles (and eventually ask for a pay rise) no matter what degree you’re studying