Get paid what you deserve

Nearly three years after the pandemic started the end seems to finally be in sight. However, workplace dynamics are still yet to stabilise and there is substantial pressure on workers and workplaces as we navigate the new world of work. In Australia, unemployment is the lowest it’s been since 2008 at 4 percent, while skilled migration has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels and the war for talent is increasing.

But what does that mean for you?

There has never been a better time to negotiate. Whether you love your job and would like to negotiate your salary or conditions, or if you are looking for a new role to advance your career further, 2022 is the time for you to make these changes.

I love my job, but I want a pay rise

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that most of us can be just as productive if not more so working remotely than in an office environment. In fact, in a recent global survey we uncovered a 14% increase in working hours and 63% of workers are working more than 40 hours per week.  If you love your job, then working hard is something that you enjoy, but you still want to be rewarded for it. If your performance appraisal is coming up and you want to speak to your manager about a pay increase, here are some key things to keep in mind.

Research is critical

Researching can help create a baseline for your expectations towards a pay rise. Understanding how similar jobs within the same industry are remunerated can help with setting benchmarks to avoid disappointment. Obtaining background information is a solid foundation to building confidence in requesting for a pay rise. Take a look at our 2022 Salary Guide for up-to-date salary information.

Demonstrate your reasoning and accomplishments

What achievements have you accomplished whilst in your current position? Providing examples of responsibilities with supporting arguments can help justify the grounds on which a pay rise can be awarded. 

Listen and query if there is room for negotiation

Have a calm, organised discussion with your manager and demonstrate a clear commitment to achieving your goals. This discussion can be beneficial to you in the long term, so be straightforward with your requests. You can be flexible in your objectives through actively listening, which can also help in negotiating a pay rise.

Timing is key

It is important to take into consideration how the business is operating in terms of profit and what their current (if any) policies are around annual reviews and pay increases. Requesting a pay rise can be difficult to tackle when you’ve never done it before. Planning and mapping out a clear course of action is a great way to approach it.

I want a new role and to further my career

That’s great, and now is the perfect time to put yourself out there! With so many businesses and industries looking for new staff, the opportunities for job seekers are plentiful. If you have a career path in mind and know what organisations or sectors you want to work in, that is a great head start. Begin to research those organisations that you would love to work for and start monitoring their recruitment activities. Many businesses now know that in order to get the best skilled talent for their organisation, they need to make their workplace not only attractive by offering flexibility, hybrid working and digital advancements, but also renumerate their staff well.

It is currently a candidates’ market, so if you would like to discuss your next opportunity, please reach out to one of our team members. Our 2022 Salary Guide is also available, download your copy today!