More than a decade ago now, I remember thinking my mum was SO daggy because she couldn’t believe I’d paid $90 for a pair of jeans. In 1998, when Gettin Jiggy Wit It was Number 1, I was (trying) to rock a VERY expensive pair of … Whatever They Weres. I was very excited about them at the time. Now buggered if I can remember the brand. Huh.
Point is, now, if I saw a pair of designer jeans for $90, I’d race over to the 50% off rack (that’s the only place you’d find them), and fight 3 other size-tens for the chance to try them on. And tell all your girlfriends about your bargain. Ok, that was 13 years ago, and I get the concept of inflation. But now, just like my mum, I’m staggered at price hikes in fashion, entertainment, food and life in general in the past few years, and even more staggered that wages in Australia simply haven’t kept in step.
So we’ve got two choices – get paid more, or spend less. I reckon you should do both. But today, let’s look at getting paid more.
If you’re not going to quit your job, you need to ask your boss for a pay rise. I know, awkward. Here’s a few tips to make it less fist-clenchingly uncomfortable for you.
* Remember that things will only be uncomfortable for a little while – hopefully only a few minutes – in front of your boss. Like doing the plank at Bootcamp, it’s short term pain, you know that uncomfortable moment is going to go away. So make like a Bandaid and do it quick.
* Talk to your boss in positive terms – don’t make it seem like a whinge. Something along the lines of “I love it here, but I want to be paid more” is going to come across a lot better than “I hate that I don’t get paid enough” when asking for a salary increase.
* Make a list of notes in case your mind goes blank in the office – or send a short, friendly email outlining your contributions to the company over the past year and why you should have a pay hike. But always try to do at least part of the negotiating in person. It’ll mean more cash for you.
* Do your research first and work out what the market is paying for similar positions.
* Tell the truth. If you haven’t been sought out by a rival company, don’t make out that you have – it’ll come back to bite you.
* And if you really don’t think your boss will give you cash, try to negotiate on the things that cost you to come to work – gym fees in the city, parking and toll passes, and other benefits.
Have you ever asked for a pay rise? Did you have any success?
Share on Facebook