If you feel your contributions are undervalued, it may be time to initiate a conversation about a pay rise, and approaching it with a well-prepared case can help ensure your request is taken seriously
CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Indeed
Do you know your value but feel that your employer doesn’t recognise it? If that’s the case, it might be time to initiate a conversation about a pay increase. While asking for a raise can feel daunting, approaching it strategically can make a big difference in getting your request heard and taken seriously. Here’s how to prepare for a salary conversation.
In many schools, pay raises are typically awarded on a set schedule, often linked to seniority or performance reviews. However, there may come a time when you feel your contributions, responsibilities, or the evolving demands of your role merit a salary increase beyond the standard raise. In a school setting, where budgets are often tight and financial constraints are a reality, it becomes especially important to approach the topic of a pay rise with a strong, well-prepared case.
Preparing your Case
Increased Responsibility
One of the strongest reasons to ask for a pay rise is when you’ve consistently gone above and beyond the expectations of your role. As a school business manager, this could include taking on extra tasks such as managing complex budget adjustments, overseeing new financial systems, or helping to streamline administrative operations.
With schools constantly evolving, your role may have naturally expanded to include additional responsibilities that were not part of your original job description. Highlighting how your workload and responsibilities have grown alongside the school’s development can demonstrate how you’ve adapted to meet its changing needs and justify your request for a raise.
Positive Contribution
Your contributions to the school’s success can also provide a solid case for requesting a pay increase. If your efforts have helped the school see improvements in areas such as more efficient financial management, increased enrolment, or smoother day-to-day operations, it’s important to note how you’ve been a part of that success.
For example, you may have implemented new budgeting processes, managed cost-saving initiatives, or played a key role in applying for grants. Be sure to present specific examples of how your work has directly contributed to the school’s growth or improved its operations, and if possible, highlight measurable outcomes.
Professional Development
If you’ve actively sought opportunities to expand your skill set or enhance your existing abilities, this could be a strong reason to request a pay rise. Whether you’ve completed relevant workshops, earned job-specific certifications, or participated in professional development programs, these efforts show your commitment to growth and improving your value to the practice. When preparing for your meeting, approach it with confidence by reflecting on your accomplishments and the skills you’ve developed.
If you’ve actively worked to expand your skill set, this is a great reason to ask for a pay rise. Whether you’ve completed relevant courses, earned certifications related to school finance management, or participated in professional development programs, these efforts show your commitment to both your personal growth and your value to the school. When preparing for your discussion, approach it confidently by reflecting on your accomplishments, the new skills you’ve developed and how they’ve contributed to the school’s success.
If you believe your reasons for deserving a pay rise are valid and backed by concrete evidence, your confidence will shine through during the conversation. By clearly presenting your case, you’ll increase the likelihood that your request will be considered more seriously.
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