Asking for a pay rise is always tricky.

Even if you're an experienced negotiator,

Here are 5 do's and 5 don'ts you should consider the next time you go knocking on your manager's door...

Do: Be honest with your value

Don't undersell yourself, but don't simply assume you're worth a huge pay packet either!

Don't: Forget your facts

Don't mount an emotional case. Stick to cold, hard, undeniable evidence!

Do: Discuss!

Win your case with a two-way conversation. Don't just write a speech.

Don't: Be inflexible

Be prepared for questions and rebuttals - there's no telling what their reaction will be.

Do: Practise!

Practise your negotiating wherever you go - from your local pub to your next phone contract.

Don't: Make it about anyone else

Don't mention a colleague's pay rise or talk about how much you're doing compared to someone else.

Do: Aim high

There's no harm in being optimistic!

Don't: Aim too high!

On the other hand, a truly unrealistic request won't be taken seriously at all.

Do: Pick the right time

Timing can be everything. Don't wander in there after a budget cut announcement, for example...

Don't: Be aggressive

Assertiveness is one thing. Demanding a pay rise with bravado tactics is another altogether!