The art of negotiation: How to get a pay rise?

Asking for a pay rise requires a thorough approach and clear reasoning. It is not a spontaneous decision, but a carefully planned process that needs to be prepared in advance. You can't just state your desire for more money - it's important to demonstrate the value you bring to the company and make it worthwhile for both parties. A positive attitude, sound arguments and the right timing will increase your chances of success in this important conversation.

The right time: When should you ask for a promotion?

Over the course of your career, you'll have many opportunities to discuss or review your salary with your employer. So when is it legitimate to raise the issue with a supervisor? For example, it could be due to a change in job responsibilities or an increase in your qualifications. It could also be due to your performance, which has significantly exceeded the company's expectations.

Let's take a look and decide when opportunities do arise that you can use to ask for a raise:

• Job change: Taking on a new role in the company with more responsibility and duties can be a good reason to ask for a pay rise;
• A new, higher-paid employee joining the company: If a new employee in a similar position is paid more, this could be a reason to review your salary;
• Expanding your responsibilities: If you are assigned additional tasks or projects beyond your original duties, this warrants a discussion about a pay increase;
• Upgrading your skills after training: New knowledge and skills make you a more valuable employee, which should be reflected in your salary;
• Annual pay increase deemed disappointing compared to company performance: If your work has brought significant results to the company, a small increase may be a reason to discuss it again.

Choosing the right time and person to talk to

You need to carefully choose the right time to interview if you think all the conditions for asking for a pay rise are in place. Depending on the company and how it works, this could be an annual performance review or a one-on-one meeting with your boss during the year. It's also important to identify the right point of contact, whether it's your line manager or a member of the HR department. When planning the conversation, try to think through not only your arguments, but also consider the overall situation of the company.

Another important factor is the financial health of the company. If you start a negotiation during a period of financial instability, you run the risk of being rejected and missing out on an opportunity. Adhering to the company's hierarchy and procedures is also important to avoid mistakes in the enquiry process. Make sure your proposal looks rational and takes into account not only your interests but also the company's capabilities.

Proper preparation for a promotion conversation: The key to success

To maximise the effectiveness of salary negotiations, it is important to clearly understand the added value you bring to the company. Determine how much the company is willing to pay for your profile, what impact your departure will have and what your real contribution to the organisation's bottom line is. Consider how well your current salary matches your skills, role and contribution to the company. If all these aspects point to the need for a raise, then it's time to start negotiating.

To prepare, start by making a list of your skills and responsibilities in your current position. Look back at your accomplishments, especially if the negotiation coincides with a performance review, and take stock of the goals you've achieved over the past year. Remember to also assess the labour market and research the salaries of colleagues and professionals in your field to find the best range to negotiate. The more accurate your arguments and calculations are, the more convincing you will be in the eyes of the employer.

A few tips for successful negotiations:

• Make a list of your skills and achievements;
• Evaluate your performance and contribution to the company;
• Find out the salaries in your industry and company;
• Determine your desired salary range for discussion;
• Prepare a compelling case for the interview.

Conclusion: the Art of Negotiation

In negotiating a salary increase, it is important to consider the interests of both parties: your arguments must be convincing and the benefit to the employer must be clear. Proposing new goals and objectives that benefit both you and the company can be a great basis for a successful discussion. Take care to choose the right time to negotiate so that it takes place in a favourable environment. Preparation, common sense and a clear idea of your value are keys to a successful outcome.

Salary negotiation is a complex process that requires time and careful preparation. To maximise your chances, you need to choose the best moment, carefully consider your arguments and show your effectiveness. Understanding the employer's interests and being able to offer mutually beneficial solutions are crucial to achieving the desired outcome.