Furthermore, asking the right way could lead to being rewarded with deserved bonuses or security in terms of job stability. In this article, we will explore how you can effectively make a salary increment request that may improve your financial standing and career potential.
Choose an optimal time to request for a salary increment
When it comes to requesting a salary increment, timing plays a crucial role. Here are some optimal times to consider:
1. During performance reviews
One of the most common and appropriate times to ask for a salary raise is during your annual performance review. This is when your accomplishments and contributions are evaluated, providing a natural context to discuss your compensation to be reflected on your annual salary.
2. After achieving significant milestones
If you’ve recently completed a major project, exceeded targets, or demonstrated exceptional skills, it’s a perfect moment to request a raise. Tangible achievements add weight to your request.
3. When taking on additional responsibilities
If you’ve taken on more duties, roles, or responsibilities beyond your original job description, you can leverage this to ask for a salary increment that reflects the increased workload.
4. When you’ve gained new skills or certifications
Investing time and effort into improving your skills through training, workshops, or certifications gives you a reason to request a salary increase. New skills enhance your value to the company.
5. Company success or positive performance metrics
If the company has experienced notable success, such as increased profits or expansion, it may be more open to providing raises. If your contributions have directly influenced positive performance metrics, this can strengthen your case.
6. When industry salaries are rising
If you’re aware of a trend of increasing salaries in your industry, it’s a suitable time to request an adjustment to align with market rates.
7. After a significant time period
If you’ve been with the company for a few years and consistently achieved strong results, you can use your tenure as a reason to discuss a salary increment.
8. When you’ve received a job offer
If you’ve received a job offer from another company with a higher salary, you can use it as a negotiation point with your current employer. However, be cautious and use this strategy thoughtfully.
9. Before annual budget planning
Some organisations plan their budgets for the upcoming year well in advance. If you know that budget discussions are coming up, it could be a strategic time to present your case for a raise.
10. When economic conditions are favourable
If the economy is doing well and the company’s financial situation is stable, this increases the likelihood of a positive response to your salary increment request.
Remember, timing is key. Consider these opportune moments to have a productive conversation about your salary.
Do you prefer to learn by listening? Here’s a podcast to help!
Key highlights to listen to:
- (1:17) When is the best time to ask for a salary raise
- (6:50) The key factors in negotiating for that increment
- (9:35) How to plan ahead for the conversation
Research the average salary of your role and industry
To make an informed case for a salary increment, it’s essential to research the average salary for your role and industry. Here are places you can look at to determine the average salary.
1. MyCareersFuture salary guide
Discover the ultimate salary guide on MyCareersFuture! Unlock insights and empower your career journey with valuable salary information.
2. Online salary databases
Explore websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, Indeed, and LinkedIn to search for specific salary information based on your job title, location, and industry. These platforms usually provide average salary ranges and employee reviews about compensation.
3. The Straits Times
The Straits Times has a comprehensive salary guide that generates the salary scale based on from your age, positions, and industries.
4. Job listings
Scan job listings relevant to your role and industry to get an idea of the salary ranges being offered. This can provide valuable information regarding the market rate for your skills and experience.
5. Job boards
Popular websites such as MyCareersFuture, JobsDB, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Salary.sg provide salary details for various job titles and industries. Use them to easily compare average salaries and make informed decisions.
Prepare your case with key factors you can use to negotiate your salary increment
1. Performance and results
Delivering exceptional job performance, exceeding targets, and contributing to company success can lead to higher salary increments. You can look at the following performance metrics:
a. Quantitative utput
The number of completed projects, sales revenue generated, units produced, customers served, and leads generated.
b. Quality metrics
Customer satisfaction scores, Net Promoter Score (NPS), customer feedback and testimonials, defect rate or error rate.
c. Efficiency metrics
The time taken to complete a task or project, turnaround time for customer inquiries, and percentage of deadlines met.
d. Productivity metrics
Output per hour or per day, tasks completed per week, and utilisation rate (for industries like consulting or services).
e. Financial metrics
Cost savings are achieved through process improvements, Return on Investment (ROI) for specific projects or initiatives, and profit margins.
f. Sales and marketing metrics
Conversion rates, click-through rates (CTR) for digital marketing campaigns, and customer acquisition cost (CAC).
g. Customer engagement metrics
Social media engagement metrics (likes, shares, comments), open rates and click-through rates for email marketing campaigns, active users or daily active users.
h. Employee performance metrics
The number of training courses completed, employee satisfaction scores, and the number of goals achieved in a given period.
i. Project management metrics
On-time delivery rate, scope adherence, and project budget adherence.
j. Healthcare metrics (for healthcare professionals)
Patient outcomes and recovery rates, patient satisfaction scores, adherence to medical guidelines.
k. IT metrics (for IT professionals)
Uptime and system availability, response time for resolving IT issues, and number of successful software implementations.
l. Supply chain metrics
Inventory turnover ratio, lead time for procurement, supplier performance metrics.
m. Safety metrics
The number of safety incidents, lost time injury rate, and compliance with safety protocols.
2. Market demand and industry trends
In-demand skills and expertise in your industry may drive higher salary opportunities. If there is a shortage of qualified professionals with specific skills, negotiating a higher salary becomes more feasible.
3. Company profits and financial health
Organisations that are thriving and experiencing growth are more likely to provide substantial raises to their employees.
4. Skills and expertise
Continuously acquiring new skills, certifications, or expertise relevant to your role and industry can make you more valuable to the company, often resulting in recognition and rewards.
5. Responsibilities and contributions
Taking on additional responsibilities or, leadership roles, or making significant contributions to critical projects can justify a higher salary.
6. Experience and seniority
Gaining more experience and expertise over the years increases your value, making you eligible for raises that reflect your enhanced contributions.
7. Promotions and advancements
When you move up in the company, whether it’s a promotion or advancement, you usually get a significant salary increase. It’s important to do your research and make sure you’re getting paid competitively. This will keep you motivated and excited about your career growth!
8. Education and training
Earning advanced degrees, online courses, SkillsFuture programs, relevant training, or certifications can enhance your value and earning potential, leading to higher salary increments.
Consider these factors when determining your salary expectations and negotiating for a raise. Remember, it’s important to continuously develop your skills and contribute to the company’s success to maximise your earning potential.
How to start the conversation
1. Practise your pitch
Start by writing down your key points and practise what you want to say. Focus on your achievements, how you’ve contributed value, and why you believe you deserve a salary increase.
2. Set a meeting
Request a one-on-one meeting with your supervisor or human resources to discuss your compensation. Be sure to schedule the meeting well in advance to allow ample time for preparation.
3. Stay professional
During the meeting, maintain a calm and professional demeanour. Express gratitude for your current role and the opportunities it has provided while clearly stating your request.
4. Highlight your achievements
Share specific examples of how your work has positively impacted the company, such as increased revenue, improved processes, or successful projects.
5. Emphasise your growth
Discuss any new skills, certifications, or training you’ve acquired since your last salary review. Highlight how these additions make you even more valuable to the company.
6. Present market data
Mention the research you’ve conducted regarding average salaries for your role. Politely explain how your current salary compares and why you believe an adjustment is appropriate.
7. Be open to feedback
Your supervisor may have questions or concerns. Be prepared to address these and offer solutions or explanations.
8. Discuss future goals
Frame the conversation within your long-term goals and commitment to the company’s success. Show that you’re invested in your role and eager to continue contributing.
9. Negotiate
Be open to negotiation. If your employer is unable to provide the exact increase you’re requesting, inquire about other benefits or perks that could improve your overall compensation package.
10. Remain professional regardless of the outcome
Maintain professionalism and gratitude, regardless of whether you receive an immediate raise, a promise for future consideration, or a decline. Remember that this conversation provides an opportunity to express your aspirations.
11. Plan for next steps
If your request is denied, ask for feedback on how you can improve your chances in the future. Set a timeline for revisiting the topic, such as during the next performance review.
12. Follow up in writing
After the meeting, send a follow-up email to formally document and thank your supervisor for the discussion and reiterating your key points. This will provide a written record of your request and maintain open communication.
A sample of writing a salary increment request follow-up email
Subject: Follow-Up on Salary Increment Discussion
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for our meeting on [date] to discuss my compensation. It was truly valuable to have an open and constructive conversation about this important matter.
During our discussion, I was pleased to hear your insights and considerations regarding my request for a salary increment. I genuinely appreciate your feedback and your willingness to consider my proposal.
As we discussed, I understand that the decision involves several factors, and I respect the process. I also value your suggestions for areas of improvement and professional development. Rest assured, I am committed to enhancing those aspects to continue contributing to our team’s success.
I would like to request an update on the status of my salary increment request, as well as any next steps or timelines for review. Having this information will greatly assist me in planning my finances and career development effectively.
Once again, thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I eagerly await your response and look forward to any further discussions that may arise.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information or have any questions.
Thank you and best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
