How to ask for a pay rise

How to ask for a pay rise

If you feel that your hard work and efforts over the years should result in a pay increase, there is only one way to get one – ask your boss. Here are seven pointers to keep in mind when you do.

The importance of a healthy work-life balance

There are lots of factors which can affect a good work-life balance – from salary to holidays, from your co-workers to managers, to the actual tasks you perform each day. If just one of those aspects is causing you issues, it could have a massive influence on your life and happiness levels.

Be realistic and open to change

First of all, try to be realistic in your expectations. Not everything will go your way at work, so staying adaptable will help in any situation.

You should always be flexible and open to change within your role and the company you work for. As the months and years roll on the likelihood that a change is just round the corner increases dramatically. So be prepared for the unexpected, and don’t take anything personally.

Change can and will happen, and whether it’s a change in your job description, a move to another department, a new manager or owner, and so on – be as understanding as possible and move with the times.

Break the mould

There will be times during your career when you need to take action and make some drastic changes yourself. If your work-life balance is in need of help, don’t hesitate to look at all your options.

Think before you act, and consider speaking to your manager if you feel there’s a chance that something affecting you could be resolved. Looking for another job may be the answer, but always consider speaking to the employer in case they have a solution which is far easier. Moving jobs takes a lot of time, and can be a stressful process. Airing your grievances in a constructive way with your employer may just turn out better than you ever thought!

Don’t be a perfectionist

Striving for that perfect work-life balance can feel impossible – and it often is! Don’t try to be a perfectionist, and understand that it isn’t easy. Worrying too much about the situation and all its imperfection will only cause more stress. Instead, take things one step at a time and focus upon what you’d like to change quickly.

Are you working too many hours and have little time for yourself or your family?

Then look to cut down your hours, either by changing jobs or speaking with your employer. If cutting down on your hours means less pay and a more difficult time with the bills, then consider how you can solve this and get the best of both worlds. Can you reduce your monthly outgoings, or can someone else in the family help?

The problem won’t go away

Don’t get too relaxed and comfortable with your situation when it clearly isn’t right for you. Many people settle for a job because the pay is consistent and the bills are getting paid – but what about your own well-being and leisure time?

If you continue to put up with the problem then the employer will happily let you keep working away. They may not even realise there’s a problem with your work-life balance. So don’t let it fester as it will only get worse as time goes on. Sit down and figure out a way to make things easier. Create a plan and don’t look back!

We also offer some advice on when you should and shouldn’t complain to your employer when you’re not happy. Your relationship with the employer needs to always remain positive if you want to have job satisfaction. You should always approach any issues you have with a positive attitude and with possible solutions.