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!