Negotiating a pay rise

Before approaching your employer you should follow some simple rules to help plan your strategy and clearly articulate the reasons you deserve a pay increase.

1. Give reasons as to why you deserve a pay rise.

Prepare for the negotiations by researching and writing down all your achievements and successes in work over the past year. Don't be afraid to emphasise the quality of the work you do and what you contribute to the company. By showing how much you've done to deserve a raise, your boss will have a better idea of your value to the company and, hopefully, enter the salary negotiation with a higher raise in mind.

2. Do your research and get prepared!

Research the going rate for your job in your own company and in the industry generally. Use the web, your contacts in other companies and the jobs pages in newspapers to find the salary ranges for your position. Be prepared to present your findings at the negotiation.

3. Be willing to negotiate or be willing to move job.

If you know that you can get a higher salary elsewhere then decide if you're prepared to change jobs if you don't get what you want. However, bear in mind the numbers of skilled accounts staff currently out of work before making any rash demands and remember, in the current economic climate your employer might not be in a position to pay more money. Set a target increase in your mind (be reasonable) and be willing to negotiate - Don't back your employer into a corner or hold them to ransom. Ultimately if you dont get what you want then are you prepared to leave?

4. Are you thinking of the overall package worth not just salary?

Have some alternative suggestions to a salary increase ready, such as an increase in holidays, mileage allowance, VHI or pension contribution can make a huge difference, study assistance, travel allowance. Similarly, ask for additional training or wider responsibility, which will strengthen your position when you're negotiating your raise when the economy improves!

5. Ask the question!

Remember, if you don't ask, you won't get anything!