How and when to ask for a pay rise

In my 12 years of working in HR within big global companies like Groupon, Hearst Magazines, Arcadia and Ogilvy, I've had 100's of employees ask me about a pay rise. Here is what I've learned about getting the answer you want and deserve.

 1. Be aware of the conditions.

Take a moment to recognise the circumstances of your organisation. For example, is the business doing well? Is there a hiring freeze or company cuts? Showing some commercial awareness goes a long way and reinforces your knowledge of the business. While the circumstances shouldn't necessarily stop you from asking for a pay rise, it should inform your tone and approach.

2. Understand the process and the decision-maker.

Most companies will have a specific time of year (sometimes twice a year) to review compensation. Find out when and if that happens to make your case at the right time- or when decision makers are actively considering salary adjustments.

Also, identify who makes the final decision and understand the criteria your request will be evaluated against. This ensures you direct your conversation to the right person and tailor your case accordingly.

3. Do your homework (and make sure it's relevant)

It's true that salary increases within a company can often be slow and incremental. However, it helps to research what your company would pay if they had to hire someone externally for your role. Knowing your market value strengthens your position.

 The internet now holds salary surveys and benchmarking for every industry, location, and role. Research current benchmarks relevant to your company’s size and industry. Be aware that salary data fluctuates year on year based on supply and demand, so stay up to date with the market.

Do your homework internally as well. Most companies use benchmarking data with bands and a structure. You are entitled to know where you sit against internal benchmarks– don't hesitate to ask for this to be fully explained.

4. Mindset matters

Before you ask for a raise, get clear on your "why". Why are you asking for this money? Get clear on that. Is it directly linked to your motivation? Is it because an increased salary will enable something meaningful in your life? Connect back to your why. Understand the value of this request to you personally. Feeling confident in this will give you confidence and conviction when stating your case.

Also, remind yourself of your achievements. Reflect on why your skills, knowledge, and experience are valuable to the company. This mindset shift will help you approach the conversation with confidence.

5. Step away from the email!

Always have the conversation. While you may feel confident and in control articulating your point of view over email however, I would strongly advise having a face-to-face conversation (zoom to zoom if need be). You'll find that this creates a more meaningful two-way discussion on the matter. Plus, it removes the stress of waiting for an email response.

6. Be intentional

This is the one I see most, so top tip… don't make your request the last agenda point on your weekly one-to-one with your manager. Instead, request a separate meeting to talk about your salary. This shows intention and committed action. You deserve the space to put forward your point of view and request.

7. Go for it.

If you’ve done all of the above, you’ve prepared well and made your case with honesty and confidence. If you're still worried, remember that HR and managers are employees of the company. They've been in this exact situation in their career at some point as well and will be able to relate.

Whatever the response, you'll have showcased your value, reconnected with what's important to you and have confidently put yourself forward. Trust me, you'll be on the right radar.