How to Advocate for a Raise: A Step-by-Step Guide for Women in the UK

August 15, 2025
Ify Bam

How to Advocate for a Raise: A Step-by-Step Guide for Women in the UK Know

Know Your Worth & Get Paid What You Deserve

Asking for a pay raise can feel intimidating – but it shouldn’t be. Studies show that women are less likely than men to negotiate their salaries, even when they’re just as qualified. If you’ve been working hard and adding value to your company, it’s time to confidently advocate for what you deserve.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare, ask, and secure that well-earned pay rise.

Step 1: Know Your Value

Before asking for a raise, you need to be clear on why you deserve it. Consider:

✅ Your achievements – Have you exceeded targets? Led successful projects? Improved company processes?
✅ Your skills & experience – Have you taken on new responsibilities? Developed new expertise?
✅ Your impact – How has your work contributed to the company’s growth, revenue, or efficiency?

Tip: Keep a record of your successes, including data and specific examples, to support your request.

Step 2: Research the Market

Understanding industry salary benchmarks will help you determine what’s fair.

✅ Check salary comparison sites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, or Totaljobs.
✅ Speak to recruiters to find out what professionals in similar roles are earning.
✅ Network with industry peers to get a sense of competitive pay in your sector.

Tip: Look at salaries specific to your location—London salaries, for example, may be higher than in other UK cities.

Step 3: Timing Is Everything

When you ask matters as much as how you ask. Consider these strategic moments:

✔️ After a successful project or major achievement
✔️ During your annual performance review
✔️ When your company is performing well financially

Tip: Avoid asking during layoffs, budget cuts, or times of company uncertainty.

Step 4: Prepare Your Pitch

Here’s an example of how to structure your request:

1️⃣ Start with gratitude:
“I really appreciate the opportunities I’ve had to grow and contribute at [company name].”

2️⃣ Highlight your value:
“Over the past year, I’ve taken on additional responsibilities, led [specific projects], and helped achieve [measurable results].”

3️⃣ Show market research:
“Based on industry standards and my contributions, I’d like to discuss adjusting my salary to reflect my value.”

4️⃣ Be confident, not apologetic:
“I believe this raise is a fair reflection of my contributions and commitment to the company.”

Tip: Practice your pitch! Say it out loud until you feel confident.

Step 5: Be Ready for the Conversation

When discussing a raise, be professional, assertive, and solution-focused.

Potential responses from your boss & how to handle them:

❌ “We can’t afford a raise right now.”
✅ “I understand budget constraints. Can we revisit this in six months? In the meantime, are there additional benefits or responsibilities that could be adjusted?”

❌ “You need to prove yourself more.”
✅ “Could you clarify the specific targets I need to meet in order to qualify for a raise?”

❌ “We don’t give raises outside annual reviews.”
✅ “When would be the right time to discuss this? I’d love to prepare accordingly.”

Step 6: Explore Other Benefits 💰

If a salary increase isn’t possible right now, consider negotiating for:

✔️ Performance-based bonuses
✔️ More annual leave
✔️ Professional development funding
✔️ Flexible working options

Tip: If a raise isn’t approved now, ask for a clear timeline for a review.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Be Paid Fairly

Advocating for a raise isn’t just about money- it’s about recognising your worth and standing up for it. Confidence, preparation, and persistence are key.

Have you ever asked for a raise? What was your experience? Drop a comment below!