Over the last year, the UK’s private sector wages have grown between 7.6%.
While this number seems appealing on a surface level, once adjusted against inflation, the country’s workers are actually earning less than before. This has resulted in a nationwide cost of living crisis where, according to the Office of National Statistics, 60% of UK employees are “already feeling the effects”.
Are you one of them?
The United Kingdom’s Cost of Living Crisis
From being able to buy less for the same amount right through to cutting luxury spending altogether, our country is facing a very real threat that will affect the whole economy.
In response to rising living costs, 48% of workers across the UK have expressed interest in a monthly cost of living bonus that’ll help them get through these difficult times.
Thankfully, recent market research from the CIPD shows that a large portion of employers are more than willing to help out.
“According to the recent job market outlook report, more than a third of businesses (36%) are planning to boost salaries to address the cost of living problem.” - Expense In
Getting the Pay Rise You Deserve During the Cost of Living Crisis
When it comes to getting the pay rise you deserve, then, your chances are already looking positive. However, a little bit of encouragement can’t hurt in kick starting the process.
As long as you make your request in the right way and only ask for what is reasonable, your voice should be respected, appreciated, and listened to.
Step 1: Book an Appointment With Your Senior Leader
First and foremost, before doing anything else, you need to book an appointment with a relevant senior leader who has the power to increase your pay. This person could be…
Your direct department head.
Someone from Human Resources.
The owner of the business.
As you propose the meeting, be clear and upfront about the reason - giving them time to review the budget beforehand and process your request. An ideal timeline would have you sitting down with the senior leader on a 1:1 basis within the next couple of weeks.
Step 2: Do Your Research
After you’ve set a date for the meeting, you must start preparing for it.
In an ideal world, your senior leader would already be on board with offering a pay increase. However, this isn’t always the case.
To convince them that you deserve a pay rise, you should gather data on…
The cost of living in your area.
Your recent work performance and ongoing contribution to your employer.
Average salary rates for your position.
This should justify your request to earn a higher amount and reminder the leader that you’re worth the increased investment. They don’t want to lose you.
As long as you present this information in a calm and professional manner, answering any questions that arise, you should both leave the meeting feeling satisfied.
Step 3: Give Your Leader Time to Reflect
The granting of a pay rise isn’t always a speedy process. There are a lot of factors at play.
You need to accept that your senior leader might have to speak with other internal stakeholders about your request and will therefore require time to make a decision that suits everyone.
Following your meeting, they might realise that the rest of their employees would also benefit from a salary increase and implementing this on an organisational level could take months. Patience is key.
Step 4: Follow Up
However, this doesn’t mean you have to sit quietly and simply wait to receive news.
It’s perfectly reasonable for you to follow up with your senior leader and encourage further communication about your potential pay rise. Express that you want to be kept in the loop on the decision-making process and would be happy to answer any further questions.
To avoid frustrating your contact, aim to check in on a fortnightly basis until you have a concrete “yes” or “no” as well as a timeline for receiving a higher salary. Any more than this could seem pushy and ungrateful.
The Other Option… Moving Jobs
Although they might really want to, it won’t always be possible for your employer to offer a salary increase. This isn’t a reflection on you or your worth so try not to take it personally if your request is denied.
In fact, this rejection could present a really great opportunity for you to start looking at alternative jobs with a higher budget.
All over the UK, employers are particularly eager for skilled and experienced workers. They’ll be ecstatic to have you apply.
With the help of the experts at Scantec, you can negotiate your starting salary and move up the earning bracket. Soon, you’ll be living comfortably without restrictions.
Recruiting Through Scantec
At Scantec, we prioritise finding the perfect fit for our businesses and candidates alike. Our recruiters take time to look at both the hard and soft skills of each applicant - selecting someone that will thrive in their new role and embrace every challenge that comes their way. If you are currently hiring or looking for a job, get in touch with us today.
