Now, dear Foxy fans, it’s that time of year again. The Christmas ads are bursting out of every orifice, complete with annoying carrots, fat fairies, overbearing families, and smug celebrities; the weather’s turned a bit chillier; and – crucially – my pay review is due.
Now, as if by coincidence, normally at this time of year my esteemed boss disappears for weeks on end – muttering something along the lines of “so many Christmas lunches, so little time” – so my pay review is put firmly on the back burner. However, at least it gives me some time to hatch my plan.
And, it seems I am not alone. According to new research from no lesser authority than the Global Payroll Association, less than a fifth of UK workers have actually asked their employer for a pay rise over the past 12 months, and many more have not even had an increase for over two years.
The good news is that due to changes unveiled in the Autumn Budget, any employees who currently earn less than the new National Living Wage will be legally entitled to a pay increase without having to actively request it. From April 2025, the NLW for apprentices and under-18s will rise from a paltry £6.40 up to whopping £7.75; for 18- to 20-year-olds it will rise to a “massive” £10 per hour, and for workers over the age of 21, it will increase to £12.21. Of course, those like me who are deliberately paid just 10p over it won’t be legally entitled to anything.
The CEO and founder of the Global Payroll Association, the deliciously named Melanie Pizzey, advises: “Asking for a pay rise is not always easy. It takes a certain amount of confidence and a good relationship with your managers. It also requires the correct timing because there are certain times of the year when a company is more amenable to the idea of issuing pay rises.”
No wonder I can never get one, then, although Pizzey appears to be taking the pizzey herself with her next sentence. “The hope is always that your request is approved and a pay rise is awarded, if the answer comes back as ‘no’, it’s vital you respond in the correct manner; rather than becoming demoralised, and certainly instead of complaining or sulking, be professional and polite.”
No chance; I love a good moan and a sulk.
Still, at least she does admit: “If, however, the pay rise isn’t possible simply because the company cannot afford it, it might be time to start looking for a new job with an employer who is better placed to pay what you deserve.”
Gissa job, anyone?
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