My policy is that every year I aim for a substantial pay rise. There is no set percentage that I aim for, I basically just come up with a number that I want, and start negotiating.
The day that the company claims there is no more room in the budget, and I can't see any realistic chance of progression, is the day I start looking for a new job.
Generally speaking, the easiest way to secure a decent pay-rise is to change companies. However, most companies have some kind of appraisal system in place - don't be afraid to ask for a pay-rise. Most companies expect it, and are prepared to negotiate somewhat.
In the past year, I increased my salary by 50%. Know what you're worth, work out the average for your position and skillset, and demand it.
Working for a lower salary than the industry standard is not only bad for you, it's bad for the industry as a whole.
"Working for a lower salary than the industry standard is not only bad for you, it's bad for the industry as a whole."
There is a reason not everyone gets paid the same. Two software engineers with 7 years experience in the same technologies but one has taken on leadership roles in big projects and the other has only done small solo projects. The first person should be above the industry standard, but the second person should be below the industry standard.
The day that the company claims there is no more room in the budget, and I can't see any realistic chance of progression, is the day I start looking for a new job.
Generally speaking, the easiest way to secure a decent pay-rise is to change companies. However, most companies have some kind of appraisal system in place - don't be afraid to ask for a pay-rise. Most companies expect it, and are prepared to negotiate somewhat.
In the past year, I increased my salary by 50%. Know what you're worth, work out the average for your position and skillset, and demand it.
Working for a lower salary than the industry standard is not only bad for you, it's bad for the industry as a whole.