Payrise

[TheCaddy]

I have just come through a merger and desperately need a payrise. Last one was 5 years ago.

I’ve been approached about a similar role but with a rival firm. I know I can negotiate a higher salary with them but I don’t particularly want to leave my current job. I’m settled, like the people and the drive behind the new directors.

I could go for an interview and if I get the job, get a contact with a higher salary to hopefully negotiate with my current employer but it all seems like a huge waste of the rival firms time. We work in a small town so word does get about.

Is there any way, or anything you can suggest to try and get a payrise in my current work without using the threat of leaving? I totally get that my boss might just wave me off to new role and not be dragged into negotiations if I go with a new contract!

Have you asked for a pay rise? Make a list of all the things you've achieved, why you think you deserve one, plus the fact you've not had one for five years, and ask!

The worst they can say is no, at which point you can weigh up whether to apply for the other job. Be prepared to take it though, if you're planning to try to use it as leverage.

I am rubbish at this stuff! No I’ve not asked. Should I have another job offer or explain I’ve been approached? Or do you just ask for a rise and disregard the other role?

Pre the merger I’d been with the old employer for 18 years.

I personally would just ask first, no need to mention the other role. Go for it!

How much extra are you wanting to ask for?

Ask, with facts. State it’s been 5 years since your last pay rise, say you checked the going market rate for your role and experience and it is x.

If they say no, then tell them you have been headhunted. The ball is in their court.

The best way to get an increase is to give evidence you're being underpaid for the role/ job responsibilities you have to do, based on external market rates giving a sample of 3 companies to make it compelling. Otherwise they have no incentive to pay you more. Have they really not given you any pay increase for the past 5 years? Have they said why?

If they value your contribution so poorly, maybe finding another job is the right thing to do.