Do research
We’d all like to be paid more, but if you are going to ask for a pay rise, you need to know that it’s the market rate. Check online ads and, if you have a good relationship with a recruiter, ask their opinion. If you can, find out what other people at your level are paid. Make sure you have a good case.

Make an appointment
Don’t bring this up in the pub, car park, lift or loo. Ask for a meeting where you can discuss salary and progression (the two are often linked).

Be prepared
Be clear on the points you want to get across; make notes – refer to them; be concise, confident and deliberate.

Know your outcome
What do you want to happen? A decision? Be realistic; the chances are your manager will have to refer to someone else, so accept that, but ask for a timeline.

Don’t issue an ultimatum
It’s very hard to come back from that and, unless you are willing to follow through, this isn’t a great idea.

This article first appeared in Issue 23 of Impact.