What Should I Be Getting Paid? How to Know Your Worth (and Ask for More)

“What should I be getting paid?”

It’s one of the most common questions we hear from candidates – and one of the hardest to answer when you don’t have the right information.

Whether you’re preparing for a performance review, scoping out job ads, or just feeling underpaid, now is the time to assess your market value.

Many companies begin reviewing team performance, budgets, and roles around the new financial year. That means new opportunities and fresh chances to revisit your salary expectations. However, don’t let the time of year stop you from being proactive in asking for what you know you’re worth – start prepping for that conversation today!

If you’re wondering whether your pay stacks up with the current market, this guide walks you through how to benchmark your salary, prepare for a raise conversation, and negotiate with confidence.

 

1. Do Your Research (and Bring the Receipts)

Feeling underpaid isn’t enough. You need data.

Walk into a salary negotiation with:

• Salary guides and market reports for your role and industry
• Competitor job ads showing salary bands
• Advice from recruiters who know the current benchmarks

💡 Tip: Download our free Market Report + Salary Guide to get a clearer picture of where your current salary sits in today’s market.

 

2. Track and Document Your Wins

Don’t assume your manager remembers everything you’ve achieved. Start a “brag sheet” to track:

• Revenue made or saved
• Project milestones and outcomes
• Efficiency improvements
• Positive feedback and testimonials

This helps you make a strong, evidence-based case for a raise.

 

3. Practice Your Pitch

Rehearse your ask so you can speak with clarity and confidence.

Try this:

“Over the past year, I’ve delivered [key results]. Based on recent market benchmarks and my contribution, I’d like to revisit my salary to ensure it aligns with the value I bring.”

Speak slowly, stay calm, and allow space for your manager to respond.

 

4. Be Ready for Pushback

If the answer is “not yet”, don’t walk away discouraged. Instead, ask:

• “What would I need to demonstrate in the next 3–6 months to reach that salary?”
• “Can we revisit this conversation at [specific time]?”
• “Is there flexibility in other areas — like job title, training budget, or role scope?”

This shows you’re proactive and invested in your growth.

 

5. Know Your Non-Negotiables

If there’s no raise, no growth, and no plan, it might be time to look elsewhere.

We’ve helped hundreds of professionals move on from stagnant roles to secure better pay and stronger career progression. If you’re at a crossroads, we can help you explore your options.

Download our Market Report + Salary Guide to see what others in your industry are earning, and find out what’s possible for you.

When it comes to your career, the most powerful thing you can do is ask:

“What should I be getting paid?”

Don’t wait for someone else to tell you your worth. Back yourself with data, preparation, and the right support, and start the conversation.

 

🚀 Ready to Take the Next Step?

• 📥 Download our free Market Report + Salary Guide
• 🤝 Chat with a recruiter for real-time salary insights
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