How to ask for a pay rise in 10 simple steps

Perhaps you feel as though you are being underpaid for the amount of work you do, or maybe you’ve been on the same wage for many years despite taking on more responsibility. Whatever the situation, complaining about it won’t help. Perhaps now is the time to get brave and ask your boss for a pay rise…

Step one

Pray! This should always be our first port of call when we’re taking a big step (or even a small one). Ask God for wisdom and favour.

Step two

Work out when you last had a pay rise (if ever). If it was more than a year ago it’s generally considered fair game to ask.

Step three

Have a think about what you would like to be earning, and consider whether it is a realistic figure. Do some research and find out what other companies are paying employees in similar roles.

Step four

Keep praying! Ask for renewed strength and clarity of mind. Thank God in advance for giving you the right words to say and for opening doors of opportunity.

Step five

Write down your reasons for requesting the pay rise, for example, “I’ve been working here for ten years” or “I have a new qualification” or “I’ve smashed all my sales targets”. Be as specific as possible about the value you’ve brought to the company so far. Read old appraisal notes to remind yourself of points that will back up your argument and boost your confidence.

Step six

Write detailed notes outlining your pay rise request and memorise them as thoroughly as possible.

Step seven

Practise what you’re going to say to your boss in front of the mirror or with someone you trust. Keep practising until you are able to deliver it clearly and without stumbling.

Step eight

Ask your boss to book a suitable time for a meeting. Try to make sure it’s at a time when your workplace isn’t really busy or filled with distractions. If your manager is a morning person, try to get an early appointment. Last thing of a Friday probably isn’t the best time for anyone!

Step nine

When the time comes, take a deep breath, ask God to be with you and then make your points as concisely as possible. It’s conceivable that your manager won’t agree to a pay rise right away, and there may need to be further discussions with other senior members of staff. If so, be patient but ask for an answer by an agreed date.

Step ten

Leave it in God’s hands. You’ve done your bit, and the decision is now someone else’s to make. If you end up with a yes, remember to thank God for it. If the answer isn’t as favourable as you’d hoped, don’t despair. It might be that you have to wait a while for your pay rise, but trust God to meet your needs in the meantime.

Matthew 7:7-8 says: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

This verse doesn’t necessarily promise financial gain, but it reassures us that God is always there if we seek him.