FOUR STEPS TO ASKING FOR A PAY RISE

Aware of your contributions, you’re convinced that it’s time for a pay rise.

This conversation is never easy.

Pick up your courage. Armed with this four-step scenario, you’ll be able to be strategic and earn the salary you want, situation permitting.

1) Do your research: roles, responsibilities and variables

Validate and do your research to find the salary range for your position with your employer and in various sectors of the economy according to years of experience and your level of education. Evaluate your competitors’ skills. Write down your number. It should be realistic, reflecting your job or the other responsibilities you are willing to take on. As a former human resources director and manager, I recommend that you calculate her percentage increase. It’s often easier to fit this increase into the department’s or company’s budget.

2) Prepare your evidence: results, feedback and recognition

List your achievements and successes, including performance reviews and compliments received. Consider preparing a sheet for your boss that will generally highlight this information.

3) Be strategic: symptoms, situations and solicitation

First, validate the company’s financial situation. If all goes well, depending on your manager’s habits, choose the ideal time for your meeting, either with your performance appraisal (if positive), before the budget review or after a good job. Don’t offer this conversation in passing or during a break. The right moment prepares the boss for the right amount. Formally request a meeting to discuss the future of your career. Practice with a trusted friend or coach.

4) Ask: confident, calm and clear

Prepare yourself. Dress accordingly. Look the part. Use a friendly tone and simple language. Don’t take too long. “Thank you for this meeting. I love my job. I’ve been here “x” number of years. We’ve achieved a great deal together, with good results. I can’t wait for our sequel (name how you’ll be contributing in the future). I’d like to talk to you about increasing my salary. “Take a break. Wait a moment. Ideally, let her propose a salary first.

If she asks how much you want :
“I’d like to be at “Y”, starting on “Date”. This salary is (depending on your motivations): in line with my peers, the average in the competition, takes into account, etc.”

If this is not what you want :
“Thank you for your consideration. After some checking, I had $ in mind. Just a moment. Then, if necessary, negotiate or ask for a day of reflection.

If it’s “no”, according to reason:
Ask how you can earn what you want.
Negotiate other elements: increased commission, additional vacation days or a training budget to perform new functions.

If there doesn’t seem to be any appreciation of your talents, don’t threaten to leave. Blackmail damages your reputation and gives you the right to refuse a raise. Celebrate your daring. Learn from experience. Update your resume. Consult job offers. Often, the best way to increase your salary is to change location. Unfortunately, you’re thinking right now. But time may prove you wrong, you’ll see!

Are you in a sticky situation? This blog is at your service. Write to me at julie@julieblaiscomeau.com. Your situation may enlighten other readers.

Published Reference Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines du Québec, October 2020 (c) Julie Blais Comeau

Published veroniquecloutier August 11, 2020 (c) Julie Blais Comeau