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​Asking for a pay rise can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s an essential conversation if you believe your contributions deserve recognition. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or relatively new to your role, knowing how to navigate this discussion can be a game changer for your career. If this is uncharted territory for you, consider following these four steps before requesting a pay increase.

1. Do your homework


Before you schedule a meeting with your manager, it’s crucial to prepare your reasoning:


  • Evaluate your own performance: List your achievements, contributions, and any additional responsibilities you’ve taken on since your last review or raise.
  • Research comparable salaries: Salary guides are a great tool to help you understand current industry trends and provide a market average for you to benchmark your salary against. Our 2024/2025 Fetch Salary Guide can help you with this.
  • Review promotional criteria: Know the progression steps and ensure you have met the requirements.
  • Career reviews: If you have had any recent career reviews, understand the goals and/or targets and highlight how these have been achieved.

2. Timing is key


Choosing the right moment to ask for a raise can significantly impact the outcome:


  • Annual reviews: If your company has a regular performance review cycle, this can be the best time to bring up salary discussions.
  • After a major achievement: If you’ve recently completed a big project or exceeded your targets, it can be an opportune time to discuss a raise.
  • Consider the company's financial position: When the company’s financial health is poor, employees should avoid asking for a raise.

3. Prepare your case


You need to be ready to present a strong case, list your evidence and have a professional conversation:


  • Request a meeting: Send a polite email requesting a time in advance to discuss your role and compensation in a private setting.
  • Present your case clearly: Highlight your achievements, show your growth and have solid data to support your claim.
  • Be specific about what you want: Know the exact percentage or amount you’re asking for and be prepared to explain why you believe it’s justified.
  • Be open to feedback: Your boss may not immediately agree to your request. Be ready to listen to their perspective and discuss what steps you can take to earn the raise in the future.

4. Follow up


After the meeting, it’s important to follow up:


  • Send a thank-you note: Regardless of the outcome, send a thank-you email to express appreciation for the discussion.
  • Act on feedback: If your raise was denied, work on any feedback you received and agree on date for another pay review in three-six months’ time.
  • Have a contingency plan: Ask your manager if they can offer additional benefits, such as paying for additional study or membership of a professional body or providing you with extra annual leave.

Final thoughts


Frame your request by highlighting your contributions to the company and how you've positively impacted its goals. Use research to justify your proposed salary range, showing flexibility by suggesting a range rather than a fixed amount. This approach can make your request more appealing and demonstrate your value beyond just the monetary aspect.


When asking for a salary increase, it's important not to focus solely on the financial aspect. Consider the overall value of your employment package are you receiving additional benefits such as flexibility, training, transport costs…etc. And ask for these if a pay rise isn’t available.

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Fetch Recruitment Blog - Navigating Career Changes in Uncertain Times
April 22, 2025
In today’s economy, many professionals are feeling the weight of uncertainty, with the high cost of living being a key concern. It's no surprise that some may be more hesitant to take the leap and change jobs. But as challenging as the economic landscape might seem, there are still significant benefits to considering a career move, especially if you’re looking to align your career with exciting new opportunities. New Projects on the Horizon – A Bright Future Ahead The Construction, Civil Infrastructure, and Energy sectors are expected to see substantial growth across Australia, particularly as fresh new projects break ground this year. Whether you’re in Perth, Melbourne, Queensland, or South Australia, these markets are buzzing with activity, offering ample opportunities for skilled professionals. In Perth , several large-scale developments are underway: Burswood Park Entertainment Precinct – A £217.5 million redevelopment scheduled for completion in late 2025. Perth Airport Expansion – Ongoing works set to finish by 2026, improving capacity and international connections. Perth Concert Hall Redevelopment – Started in 2023, with completion expected in 2025, revitalising one of the city’s cultural landmarks. In Melbourne , major infrastructure projects continue to drive demand: Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project – Due for completion in 2025, set to revolutionise the city’s rail network. West Gate Tunnel Project – Expected to be operational by 2025, easing congestion and improving transport links. Renewable Energy Initiatives – The Victorian Government has committed to 95% renewable energy by 2035, boosting demand in the Energy & Renewables sector. In Queensland , infrastructure and public transport projects are booming: Queensland Rail’s New Generation Rollingstock – Ongoing, with continued investment in rail upgrades to be completed by 2026. Brisbane Metro Project – Set to greatly improve public transport efficiency, with key stages scheduled to be completed by late 2025 . 2032 Brisbane Olympics – A key driver for infrastructure development, with over $7 billion earmarked for transport, stadiums, and urban projects. In South Australia , innovation and renewables are at the forefront: Lot Fourteen Innovation Hub – Ongoing development, creating jobs in construction and technology sectors, set to be completed late 2027 to early 2028. Port Augusta Renewable Energy Park – Expected to be completed by mid-2025, supporting the state’s push toward 100% renewable energy by 2030. The Benefits of a Job Change During Uncertain Times While moving jobs during economic uncertainty might feel risky, there are real benefits to seizing the moment. The current economic climate has led to many companies adjusting their strategies, which often results in more dynamic, agile roles. If you're looking to expand your skill set, gain exposure to new industries, or simply find a position that offers more flexibility, now may be the ideal time to make your move. Additionally, many employers in the sectors we work across are offering competitive benefits and perks to attract top talent. With remote work options, flexible hours, and a focus on work-life balance, employers in these sectors are more willing than ever to offer attractive deals to skilled workers. The Growing Demand in Key Sectors The demand for skilled professionals is directly tied to these broader industry trends: Construction & Civil Infrastructure – Major projects across Australia are fuelling demand for Project Managers, Engineers, and skilled trades. This sector is seeing substantial growth, with significant investments like the $270.4 billion nationwide infrastructure boom , driving new development and creating numerous job opportunities. Corporate Services – As infrastructure expands, the need for white-collar professionals in finance, HR, and administration grows to support project delivery. There’s a steady increase in demand for professionals in these fields to keep pace with growth. Energy & Renewables – Australia is investing heavily in renewables, with the sector expected to grow 30% by 2030, increasing demand for specialists in solar, wind, and energy storage. The growth in this sector is being driven by the nation’s shift toward sustainability. Design & Engineering – As infrastructure expands, structural, civil, and electrical engineers are in high demand. The ongoing construction of major infrastructure projects across the country is creating a continuous need for these professionals. Manufacturing – A push for local production is driving opportunities for machine operators, production managers, and engineers. Increased demand for locally made products and materials is supporting this growth. Trades & Labour – There is an ongoing shortage of electricians, plumbers, and carpenters across Australia, driven by the high level of construction activity. This demand for skilled tradespeople continues to outpace supply, further intensifying the shortage. Mining & Resources – While some mining operations have faced challenges, Western Australia’s mining sector continues to perform strongly, contributing $797 billion to the economy in 2024. With a projected 5.10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2034 , the demand for skilled professionals like HD Fitters, Boilermakers, and Operators is expected to remain robust, ensuring sustained opportunities in the sector. Seizing the Opportunity Despite the uncertainties of the current economy, many industries, including Construction, Civil Infrastructure, Energy, and Mining, are offering tremendous opportunities for career growth. Now is an exciting time to make a move that aligns with both your personal and professional aspirations. Whether you're looking for stability, new challenges, or a role that better suits your lifestyle, the future is full of promise. As always, ensure that your next move is aligned with your long-term career goals. Don't hesitate to take advantage of the blue skies ahead. At Fetch, we’re always on the lookout for professionals in Construction, Civil Infrastructure, Corporate Services, Energy & Renewables, Design & Engineering, Manufacturing, Mining & Resources and Trades & Labour. Reach out to us today!
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