HOW TO ASK FOR A PAY RISE

THE fastest way to ensure an immediate boost of wealth is to ask your employer for a pay rise. Easy to say, but not so easy to do, as few of us want to confront our bosses.

Helena Morrissey says: ‘When it comes to asking for a pay rise, I don’t think anyone likes that conversation or relishes it. Women are even more embarrassed than men. But it is a really normal conversation. Rehearse it, write yourself a script. What is there to lose? They can’t fire you, and they might take you more seriously.’

Her advice is to go in with facts, not with emotion. Work out why you think you deserve a pay rise. Go over your original job description and note any extra responsibilities you’ve taken on.

Be realistic in how much you ask for, but always overshoot a little as they will try to negotiate you down. Use job advertisements to work out what people in similar roles are being paid elsewhere.

Pick your timing carefully, first thing on a Monday or last thing on a Friday probably won’t go down too well — schedule a meeting when they are not too busy.

And always have a back-up plan — perhaps you could negotiate a car allowance, extra holiday or a day each week where you can work from home.