How to ask for a pay rise

CALCULATE YOUR WORTH
Try to calculate how much you think you are worth and back it up with evidence of your skills and achievements.

FIND YOUR LEVEL
Take a look around at what other people with your level of experience in your position are being paid and arm yourself with this information.

PICK YOUR TIME CAREFULLY
Find an appropriate time to make the request and make an appointment if necessary. The end of a working day may be a good time.

JUDGE THEIR MOOD
Is your boss in a position to listen to your request? Try to judge their mood and, if needs be, put off negotiations until later.

LET THEM BARGAIN YOU DOWN
If you feel confident, ask for a little more than you are really after. For example, if you are happy to settle for a 5% pay rise, try asking for 7%.

HAVE YOUR ANSWERS READY
How will you respond if you are offered a lower amount than you wanted? Have a response prepared in advance.

CONSIDER OTHER BENEFITS
Consider whether or not you would be prepared to accept extra holiday or more flexible hours instead of a raise.

BE PRAGMATIC AND TRY AGAIN
If you are turned down, ask your boss when you would be eligible for a raise (eg, in six months' time) and schedule a meeting to discuss it again then.