Best way to ask your boss for a pay rise... and get it

ASKING for a pay rise can feel awkward, right from getting the conversation started or dealing with a knock back.

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Research from Totaljobs’ Salary Trends 2025 report found that 67% of those under 30 feel comfortable asking for a pay rise in comparison to 56% of those over 30.

There is also a slight gender divide, with 79% of young men feeling more comfortable asking for a rise compared to 67% of women, highlighting it still isn't a conversation everyone wants to start.

We spoke with experts Nicola Weatherhead, vice president of people at Totaljobs, and Co-founder and CEO of moneyappi, Ray Law, about the best way to ask for a pay rise.

Why do we find it so hard?

“Money is seen as a sensitive subject - there's often a lack of advice or open conversation about how to approach it," says Nicola. “It creates uncertainty and dents confidence, making the process feel intimidating.”