Discussing a Salary Increase with Your Manager

20 October 2023 🇷🇺 Original: русский 1 min read

Salary levels are a topic of concern for most experts and specialists.

It is often believed that one of the best ways to increase pay is to change employers.

In their current roles, many people don't consider what to do if their pay is subpar, especially since waiting for an annual indexation takes a long time and offers no guarantee it will meet expectations.

Colleagues often complain that management is unwilling to raise pay and suggest the issue should be addressed at a legislative level.

It is useful to understand two principles:

  1. Pay largely depends on the employee: their confidence, proactivity, and the value they bring.
  2. Often, employers are not interested in increasing their subordinates' salaries. And why would they be?

A professional performs their duties and shows no dissatisfaction.

In such cases, it is more important for the manager to keep the situation unchanged.

After all, if an employee only performs duties within their job description, why should they be paid more?

There is a great saying: "If you want something, ask; if you don't like something, speak up."

Don't rely on a "fair" leader, no matter how good a person they are — their primary interest is business profitability.

In this article, I will share recommendations on how to effectively structure a dialogue about a salary increase.

  1. You must be convinced that you truly deserve higher pay.

Confidence should stem from your workload, scope of responsibility, professional skills, and personal qualities.

  1. Analyze the market situation.

Check if your salary is market-competitive — it might be higher or lower than similar positions.

  1. Choose the right time, such as during performance reviews or budget planning.

Avoid bringing up such matters during audits or tax inspections. Sharing your plans with colleagues, let alone discussing the results of the negotiation, is not a good idea.

  1. Decide on the percentage increase you are aiming for.

Set realistic figures that motivate you without alienating management.

  1. Argue your position without emotion, using logical reasoning and data. Results should be tangible.

For example:

– You helped earn revenue or secure government subsidies.

– The number of violations decreased by 80%.

– In addition to regulatory compliance, you implemented: the 5S system, ISO 45001 standard, and completed a social responsibility assessment with positive feedback.

– Your area of responsibility has grown by 50% or more.

– Under your mentorship, the company won professional competitions, boosting the organization's prestige.

  1. Never threaten to quit. Blackmail is strictly unacceptable. You can mention offers from other companies, but only if it is true.
  2. There may be objective reasons for a refusal: a difficult market situation or a specific salary cap for specialists at your level.
  3. If you don't get a definitive answer by the end of the meeting, clarify when you can revisit the conversation. Clear deadlines should be set.
  4. It is reasonable to ask what needs to be done to achieve your goal. If your position has a financial ceiling, ask how you can move to a higher role or expand your responsibilities.

Perhaps you should improve your team management skills or add environmental protection and fire safety to your scope of work.

Believe me, there is always room for growth.

Be sure to talk about your goals and future plans, and the benefits they will bring to the company.

  1. Practice. Rehearse your speech with family or friends, or record it on video.

Success is the result of thorough preparation.

  1. And, of course, take initiative.

Propose ideas yourself and implement new projects.

Of course, you may face misunderstanding from colleagues. This is normal; many people judge those who stand out.

Be bold! Overcoming fear is what makes us stronger and allows us to achieve our goals.

Increase your expertise and keep developing.

Believe me, this will set you apart from 80% of other employees.

Strengthen both your professional and hard skills. Specifically, HSE DAYS training modules can help you with this.

It is beneficial to network with successful people, including those from other industries and business sectors, to learn from their experience and share knowledge.

Remember, the journey is mastered by the one who walks it!

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