What not to say when asking for a salary review

When you feel that your salary is not in line with the work that you are doing then it is time to seek a review.

Don’t leave it, Be proactive

• Make a time with the person who does the review so that they can commit to a one on one discussion with you. First thing of the day is best when you will both be fresh.
• Begin with the end in mind - What do you want to achieve from the discussion. Write down the objectives and go in to get the answers.
• If the employer wants to consider the request be specific in confirming a day and time to meet again.
• Do some market research first to see what salaries are being offered for someone with your skills and experience. Consider size of firm and location. Salaries can be less outside of the city.

DON’T

• Don’t ask for a salary increase and give the reason because your mortgage has gone up
• Don’t ask for a salary increase and give the reason because you want to buy a car
• Don’t ask for a salary increase because you are saving to go overseas

There is no value in this for the employer.

Create value in what you do for the employer:

You need to create a sense of value as to what you bring to the position.

Make sure they know:

• How many years of experience you have and how this benefits you and the person you work for
• Be clear in the responsibilities you have in the role
• Have you taken on any additional responsibilities in the last 12 months?
• Are you doing any study like the legal secretarial course or legal executive course and what are the benefits to the employer – more understanding, appreciation, and commitment to the position?
• What hours do you put into the role - do you come in early and/or stay late to get work done - have you kept a record for the last month or two to prove it - have it typed up as a spreadsheet - this has more credibility
• How else can you create value – how long have you been in the role and how much knowledge do you have of the practice