Careers advice
Pay rise mistakes to avoid and how to ask for more money
Avoid common pay rise mistakes in NZ and learn how to time your salary review to negotiate a higher salary.
Last updated: 30 October 2026
What are the most common pay rise mistakes?
1. Focusing on personal financial needs instead of business value
2. Going into the meeting without market data or evidence
3. Springing the request on your manager without warning
4. Giving ultimatums unless you're ready to leave
How to prepare for a successful salary review
Step 1: Benchmark your current market worth
Step 2: Build a performance summary
Step 3: Script your opening request
When is the best time to ask for a pay rise in New Zealand?
Aligning with budget cycles and reviews
Capitalising on recent achievements or added responsibility
Times when you shouldn't ask for a raise
How to negotiate if your boss says no to a raise
Imposter syndrome can stand in the way of asking for a payrise.
Explore non-financial benefits and perks
Set a clear timeline for follow-up
What should you do if your employer rejects your pay rise request?
Ready to take the next step in your career?
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