Understand Your Worth: Research the market to understand the standard compensation for your role. Use resources like industry surveys, online salary databases, and networking to get a sense of where your salary should be.

Document Your Achievements: Keep a record of your accomplishments, especially those that have positively impacted the bottom line. Quantify your achievements in terms of revenue generated, costs saved, or efficiencies created. Be ready to present these in a clear, concise manner.

Align with Business Goals: Demonstrate how your work aligns with the broader objectives of your company or department. Show that you understand not just your role, but how it fits into the company’s success.

Choose the Right Time: Timing is key. Ideally, initiate this conversation after a significant achievement or during a performance review. Avoid times of financial strain on the company.

Prepare Your Case: Before meeting with your manager, prepare a well-thought-out case. This should include your achievements, market research on salaries, and a clear rationale for the pay rise.

Practice Your Pitch: Confidence and clarity are crucial. Practice your pitch to a mentor or peer to refine your arguments and get comfortable with the delivery

Focus on Future Contributions: In addition to past achievements, emphasize your commitment to future success. Outline your plans and how they align with the company’s vision and goals.

Be Professional in Negotiation: Approach the conversation with a collaborative, not confrontational, attitude. Be open to discussion and feedback. Remember, negotiation is a two-way street.

Have a Plan B: Be prepared for the possibility of a ‘no.’ If a raise isn’t feasible at the moment, discuss other forms of compensation, like bonuses, or professional development opportunities.

Reflect on the Response: Regardless of the outcome, reflect on the feedback. If you receive a raise, understand what factors contributed to the decision. If not, use the feedback to plan your next steps.

Consider the Bigger Picture: Sometimes, the value of a role isn’t just in the salary. Consider other factors like work-life balance, company culture, and career growth opportunities.

Know When to Look Elsewhere: If your efforts for a pay rise are consistently undervalued despite your contributions, it may be time to consider opportunities elsewhere where your skills and achievements are more appropriately rewarded.

In conclusion, getting a pay rise is about understanding your value, aligning your work with company goals and effectively communicating your case.

Remember, it’s a process that might involve thorough preparation, but with the right approach, you can greatly increase your chances of success.