Majority of Brits don’t know how to ask for a pay rise

New study from CV-Library also reveals that over half of workers have never negotiated on a job offer

A study conducted by independent job board CV-Library has discovered that nearly two-thirds of Brits (65.8 per cent) don’t know how to ask their employer for a pay rise. A further 50.4 per cent revealed that they’ve never even negotiated on parts of a job offer.

What’s more, the survey of 1,200 British professionals reveals that 61.3 per cent of Brits haven’t received a pay rise in the last 12-18 months.

Of those who did, four in 10 (38.6 per cent) received a minimal increase of up to two per cent.

Other key findings from the survey include:

■ Nearly two-thirds (65.8 per cent) have never negotiated on a pay rise offer from their existing employer.

■ With a further 45.3 per cent stating that they wouldn’t feel comfortable asking for a higher salary.

■ And almost a third (31.7 per cent) also wouldn’t feel comfortable negotiating on pay with a potential new employer.

“Our survey highlights that a natural fear around bringing up the subject of pay is holding many professionals back in their careers,” says Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library.

“Being able to negotiate a pay rise will not only bring you financial reward, but the sense of achievement and increased morale in the workplace.

“If you do feel nervous about discussing your pay with your boss, I’d advise doing your research before approaching them.

“Find out what other companies are offering for similar positions, or even what your own company’s range is for new hires.

“Determining your worth is the first step towards knowing how to ask for a pay rise,” adds Biggins.

British workers are in a fantastic position for negotiating pay right now, making the survey findings even more shocking.

With CV-Library data revealing that salaries for new jobs have risen by a staggering 30.2 per cent across the UK since last year, candidates who don’t know how to ask for a pay rise could be missing out on the chance to improve their job offer.

Biggins continues: “In the current UK job market, it’s important to be aware of your worth.

“With Brexit imminent and unemployment being at its lowest in fifty years, businesses are desperate to not only attract top talent, but hold on to the employees that they’ve got.

“So, if you’re after a pay rise, now’s the time to start negotiations.”

“If you do feel nervous about discussing your pay with your boss, I’d advise doing your research before approaching them”

Lee Biggins Cv-Library