According to the Office for National Statistics, the average weekly income for full-time workers saw a year-on-year increase of 2.9%, rising to £585 between April 2018 and April 2019. Is your current salary reflecting this rise, or are you worth more than you’re currently earning?
Pay Rise Trends Around the World
During 2019, the average weekly earnings for UK employees increased to 3.4% for total pay (including bonuses), and 3.6% for regular pay (excluding bonuses).
In the United States, around 6.8 million Americans will be starting 2020 with higher pay, thanks to the 47 new minimum wage hikes going into effect.
Meanwhile, salary increases in the APAC region are holding steady at an average of 5.6% in 2019, slightly lower than the projected rise of 5.9%, but in line with the average rise from 2017 and 2018.
Things are a little less optimistic down under, with just 77% of employees expecting a pay increase in 2020 compared to 94% in 2019.
Women Less Likely to Ask for a Pay Rise
Average salary is often dependent on age, but gender also plays a major role. A recent survey of 1,200 UK workers found that 2 out of 3 men felt comfortable asking for a pay rise, compared to less than half of the women surveyed.
Here are some interesting insights into how male and female workers in the UK differ when it comes to salary negotiations:
Workers who: | Men | Women |
Feel comfortable asking for an increase | 64% | 43% |
Have never negotiated their salary | 40% | 55% |
Are more likely to negotiate working hours than pay | 41% | 56% |
Are more likely to negotiate on specific parts of a job | 55% | 42% |
This implies that women are more dubious when it comes to talking about money in the workplace – although a growing number are prioritising flexibility and better hours over monetary compensation.
It’s also interesting to note that, in a recent survey, one-third of female UK workers described themselves as overqualified for their current job. Meanwhile, their male counterparts are likely to be more confident when applying for a job, even in cases where they are under-qualified.
If you’re looking to increase your earnings in 2020 but wondering how to broach the subject, here are a few tips and insights on the best way to ask your manager for a pay rise.
Tips for an Effective Pay Rise Discussion
- Do your research. Look at the average salary in your industry and your region, to see how your current pay compares. This will help to give you a benchmark amount to work with.
- Give your manager a heads up. Prepare your manager for the upcoming discussion. Email them with an outline of your request and a suggested date for a meeting to discuss it further.
- Meet in person. While you email your manager about an upcoming salary discussion, it’s bad form to simply come out and ask for a pay rise via email. It can be a tricky conversation to have, but it’s always worth having face-to-face.
- Get the timing right. Good timing can make all the difference when you’re asking for a rise. You don’t have to wait until your annual review. Choose a suitable time for the company, e.g. when budgets are being planned, and look for a good time to meet with your boss, when they aren’t under significant time pressure and can take the time to talk to you.
- Plan ahead. This can be a nerve-wracking conversation, so it’s best to go in prepared. Write yourself a script outlining what you’re going to say and run through it with a friend beforehand.
- Back up your request. Show your manager why you feel you deserve a pay increase by clearly highlighting your past successes in your role and your plans for the future.
- Be diplomatic. Keep your conversation respectful and be tactful. Avoid phrases like “I want” or “I deserve”. Pause to let your manager respond, rather than rambling to fill an awkward silence.
- Watch your body language. Show confidence by sitting up straight, making eye contact and presenting your points clearly and slowly.
- Make it about more than just money. Don’t only focus on the amount you want to earn. Talk about career progression, training and other possible perks. Show your manager that you’re engaged and invested in your role at the company, rather than simply looking for a bit more cash.
- Don’t expect an immediate answer. Your manager may need to consult with other parties and present your case before a rise can be granted. Don’t try to rush the process, but make sure you agree to a realistic deadline.
In 2019, UK wages saw the fastest rise in just over a decade, increasing by 3.9% in the three months leading up to June – the highest rate compared to June 2008. Be proactive in asking for a pay rise to make sure you don’t get left behind as the upward trend continues.
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