YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
I’M DETERMINED TO GET A PAY RISE THIS YEAR. WHAT SHOULD I DO IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS TO ACHIEVE THIS?
DARREN BUCHANAN MANAGING DIRECTOR, HAYS QUEENSLAND
Preparation and evidence are the key steps in getting a pay rise this year. Prepare a list of recent achievements that exceed your objectives and use the next few months to add to these. For example, can you take on additional duties or projects? Don’t forget to list the resulting benefit to the organisation of your actions. The aim is to build up strong evidence to support the value you provide, so focus on outcomes. You can also use the next couple of months to objectively assess your skills and results and look for any shortcomings. Take steps to overcome these and document improvements.
SINEAD HOURIGAN BRISBANE DIRECTOR, ROBERT WALTERS
The first thing you should be doing is research. I really appreciate why people are keen to secure pay increases but there is little point in approaching your manager for a pay rise if you don’t have the data to back it up! Clearly understand what similar roles to yours are paying in the market and that information is easily available using salary survey apps such as the Robert Walters tool. Ensure that you have documented your performance reviews and identified how you have addressed any areas that were highlighted for improvement. Reflect on the last 12 months and extract all the highlights.
JULIE BARR SENIOR EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT, McARTHUR
Stay focused on high-level delivery in your role while you gather as much information as you can. To deserve an increase, you must demonstrate high levels of productivity, achievements/extra projects and consistent delivery. Know your statistics, have some ”good news” stories or customer testimonials. Consider the company’s position – are they doing well financially overall? Ensure you understand the company’s policy – do they require an annual performance review? Identify the correct person to approach. Do your research – what is the market paying?
DR NERIDA HILLBERG DIRECTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY, FERRIS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS
First, review the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that were set for you this year. Have you exceeded each one in a measurable, specific and quantifiable way? If not, develop a plan to do so. Observe what the top performers in your company do, and model your behaviour on these people. Examine an employee in a role more senior to yours, and adjust your approach to work to match. This will assist your pay rise request as you can show your boss that you are going above and beyond your current role requirements.