Salary negotiation: using imperatives to give advice

60 min

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Think about these questions before watching. Share your ideas with a partner.

Beyond the financial aspect, what are some of the biggest challenges or fears people face when they consider asking for a higher salary?
How can an employee effectively demonstrate their value to a company when negotiating for better compensation?
What factors, besides an individual's performance, do you believe are most important for a company when deciding whether to grant a pay rise?

Watch the video carefully. Pay attention to the main ideas and key details.

Video script12 segments · click a timestamp to jump

So it’s time to ask for a pay rise. Keep calm and follow these steps:

Step one. Find out if you’re suitable for a raise - use a salary checker to

see average salaries in your industry or look at similar roles on job sites.

Step two. Choose your time wisely.

Ask when you’ve taken on a higher workload or you’ve just had a big success in the role.

Step three. Look at your achievements and skills and work out why this makes you a valuable asset.

Step four. Conduct yourself well at the meeting - dress smartly,

make your points clearly and retain your composure.

Step five. If you can’t have a meeting, write a professional letter that provides a well-written,

compelling argument for you getting a raise.

Asking for a pay rise can be difficult, but with proper preparation

you can give yourself a fighting chance at securing a bigger pay packet.

Answer these questions in your own words. Support your answers with evidence from the video.

01According to the video, what are two ways you can research if you're eligible for a pay rise?

Sample answerThe video suggests using a salary checker to see what others in your industry earn, or looking at job advertisements for similar positions to compare salaries.

02What does the video suggest is the best time to ask for a raise, and what should you prepare to justify your request?

Sample answerIt says you should ask when your workload has increased or after a major success. To prepare, you should list your achievements and skills to show why you're a valuable employee.

03In what way does the video suggest your personal conduct during the meeting can influence the outcome?

Sample answerIt implies that being professional—dressing well, speaking clearly, and staying calm—shows you're serious and confident. This can make your argument more persuasive and increase your chances of success.

04Why does the video mention writing a letter as an alternative, and what is the main message about your chances of success?

Sample answerIt mentions writing a letter for situations where a face-to-face meeting isn't possible, showing that you should still make a formal, well-argued case. The main message is that while asking is tough, proper preparation significantly improves your chances of getting the raise.

Key vocabulary for salary negotiation

Vocabulary

These expressions will help you communicate more naturally and professionally when discussing pay.

Examples

To make a strong case for (something) — to argue convincingly that you deserve something or that a particular course of action is right.

Usage note: this is a professional and persuasive phrase. You can 'make a case for a raise' or 'make a case for a promotion' by presenting clear evidence and achievements.

To benchmark your salary — to compare your current salary with the typical salaries for similar jobs in the same industry and location.

Usage note: this is a key term in career development. It shows you have done your research. For example: 'I benchmarked my salary and found I'm being paid below the industry average.'

To have leverage — to have a position of power or advantage in a negotiation that allows you to influence the outcome.

Context note: in a salary negotiation, your leverage might be a recent major success, a new qualification, or even another job offer. It's the reason they should agree to your request.

To stand your ground — to refuse to change your opinion or position, especially when others are trying to persuade you.

Register note: this is a common idiom. In a negotiation, it means being firm and confident about what you're asking for, while still remaining polite and professional. It doesn't mean being aggressive.

A compensation package — the total payment and benefits an employee receives, including salary, health insurance, bonuses, and retirement plans.

Paraphrase tip: this is a more formal and comprehensive term than 'salary' or 'pay packet'. If a company can't increase your salary, you might be able to negotiate other parts of your compensation package.

Decide if each statement is true or false. Correct the false ones.

01The video emphasizes the importance of maintaining your composure during the salary negotiation meeting.

02A well-written letter is presented as a good first step before requesting a face-to-face meeting.

03You should prepare for the meeting by reflecting on your achievements to demonstrate your value to the company.

04The video concludes that with good preparation, you can increase your chances of getting a higher salary.

05The video suggests using a salary checker primarily to see what your colleagues are earning.

Discuss these questions with a partner. Try to use vocabulary from the lesson.

Is it better to ask for a raise after a big success, or during a regular performance review? Which approach gives you more leverage, and what are the risks of each strategy?
In your culture, how acceptable is it to benchmark your salary and openly negotiate for more money? Do you think this transparency helps employees, or does it create a difficult work environment?
Imagine your manager says no to a raise but offers to improve your compensation package with non-monetary benefits. When would it be wise to accept this offer, and when should you stand your ground and continue to make a strong case for a higher salary?