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Property managers are well versed in having tough conversations, but when it comes to asking for a pay rise, having the discussion and getting it are two very different things. To ensure your pay rise request is successful, there are certain steps you must take, advises recruiting experts Hays.
1. Gather evidence
You need to show your boss why you deserve a raise, says Nick Deligiannis, managing director of Hays in Australia and New Zealand.
“It’s not enough to say the cost of living is increasing or that you’re generally doing a good job. You must have specific and quantifiable evidence to present to your boss.
“Prepare a list of your recent achievements that exceed your objectives. It may help to look back at your last review or your original job description. Then list any changed or rising work volumes or duties you’re now undertaking and consider projects you’ve been involved in. The evidence needs to demonstrate the greater value you now bring to your employer.”
2. Research salaries
Mr Deligiannis said you should research the salary you feel your performance and results are worth.
“This enables you to back up your request with evidence and demonstrate that the salary you are asking for is in line with current market rates.”
3. No surprises
Don’t spring the salary review on your boss, Mr Deligiannis said.
“She or he could be in the middle of an urgent task or their attention could be required elsewhere. Instead, book a time with your manager and clearly state that the objective of your meeting request is to present your case for a salary review.”
Also, he said, keep it professional.
“Take control, but stay calm and focused. Do not become emotional and do not talk of how much money you need, such as rising bills or the cost of living. Instead, clearly present the evidence you’ve gathered to support your pay rise request.
“Preparing a sheet of paper on which you document your evidence will help keep your boss from altering the trajectory of the meeting. If you are feeling nervous, it will also provide you with notes to refer to so you don’t forget to present all your proof.”
4. Be flexible
Mr Deligiannis said the boss may want to negotiate the value of your salary increase.
“You need to be prepared to discuss, at length if necessary, the salary you feel your results are worth.
“Throughout this discussion, keep in mind your justifications for asking for a pay rise in the first place. Also consider how much you are willing to compromise — it can help to have an ideal salary increase figure in mind as well as the minimum increase you feel your results are worth.”
5. Have a fall-back position
You should also have a contingency plan, Mr Deligiannis said, in case your employer comes back to you with bad news.
“For example, can you agree a date for another pay review in three or six months?
“Or could your boss instead offer additional benefits, such as working from home or an alternative location one or two days a week, paying for additional study or membership of a professional body, or providing you with extra annual leave?”
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