I have worked at my current practice for 8years. I last had a pay rise 5years ago; but I know that other nurses in the practice, who have worked here for less time have had a couple of pay rises over the last 3years! How do I broach this subject – I have taken on extra responsibility over the years, but for no reward!

You need to prepare before you approach whoever holds the purse strings! You could make a job specification for what duties you carried out five years ago, when you last received a pay rise, and one for the duties you presently carry out. Highlight the differ-ences and extra responsibilities which you now have and the extra value you are bringing to the Practice. If you have completed any vocational training over that period of time, don’t forget to list these as well.

You should highlight examples of your achievements and how you have contributed to the reputation of the practice. Don’t forget your ‘soft’ skills, these are often taken for granted but are important, examples are communication, teamwork, flexibility and time management.

Arrange to speak with the Vet/Practice Manager/Partner at a convenient time when neither of you needs to rush off and you can both devote time to the issue. Be reasonable and let them know that you appreciate the financial constraints of the practice, but also put forward how much more you are doing for the practice now. If possible, collect relevant comparable local salary information from friends who work at other practices and any posts that are being advertised.

Don’t expect a decision on the spot. They will need time to digest your information but do ask them to state when they will get back to you, say a week, and don’t be afraid to chase the decision if necessary. It is important that you do not take a stance of blackmailing your employer, so an objective evaluation of your worth is necessary.

Your practice might not be able to offer you a pay rise when you make your request, if this is the case you could ask when might be an appropriate interval to raise the subject again? If you are not being awarded a pay rise, there are other benefits you might want to consider requesting. Workplace development to help you progress, flexible working hours are usually highly valued although of course not all roles are suitable for this. Requesting to take on additional responsibilities will demonstrate your commitment and will stand you in good stead the next time you ask for a pay rise. What about asking for a bonus when you reach a specific target?

Keep your language factual and professional.

You might want to suggest your Practice adopts an Appraisal process in the future, perhaps with a reward system to be incorporated into it. A yearly appraisal for all members of staff to which any pay rise might be aligned would be a fairer system for all.

Author

Nicky Ackerley BA(Hons)

Nicky is the owner of HR Support Consultancy. She has a BA(Hons) in Business Studies, is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and has been a practising HR manager for more than 20 years. HR Support Consultancy has provided the BVNA Members Advisory Service (formerly known as the Industrial Relations Service) since it began in 2002.

Email: nickyackerley@hrsupportconsultancy.co.uk

VOL 36 • December 2021 • Veterinary Nursing Journal