New research from The Global Payroll Association (GPA) found that fewer than 1 in 5 of UK office workers have asked their employer for a pay rise.
The findings come in the wake of recent changes announced in the Autumn Budget. From April 2025, the National Living Wage (NLW) will see significant increases. Apprentices and workers under 18 will benefit from an 18 percent rise, bringing their hourly wage from £6.40 to £7.75. For those aged 18-20, the NLW will rise by 16.3 percent to reach £10 per hour, while workers over 21 will see a 6.7 percent increase, raising their hourly rate to £12.21.
These adjustments mean that employees earning below the new NLW thresholds will receive automatic pay increases. However, those already earning above the new minimums will need to be more proactive in securing a pay rise.
Few Workers Ask for Pay Rises
Despite the potential for salary increases, only 17 percent of surveyed employees have actively requested a pay rise. In many cases, the surveyed employees cited uncertainty over the best time and approach for such discussions. Only 24 percent of respondents said they knew the optimal time of year to ask for a raise.
The survey also reveals that UK office workers often remain with their employers for extended periods. Seventy-one percent have been with their current employer for at least five years, and 12 percent for three to four years. Over their tenure, 91 percent of employees have received a pay increase, typically on an annual basis. Sixty-four percent report receiving yearly raises, though 31 percent have had to wait over two years for an increase.
Performance Reviews: A Missed Opportunity?
Performance reviews present a key opportunity for salary discussions, with 67 percent of employees undergoing reviews annually or quarterly. However, despite this, the data shows a reluctance to initiate pay discussions, with the majority waiting for employers to offer increases.
Melanie Pizzey, CEO and Founder of the Global Payroll Association, said, “Asking for a pay rise is not always easy. It takes a certain amount of confidence and a good relationship with your managers. It also requires the correct timing because there are certain times of the year when a company is more amenable to the idea of issuing pay rises and the payroll department is well placed to implement the required changes.”
The research underlines a need for greater awareness and confidence among employees regarding salary negotiations. With most workers unclear about the best time to request a raise, employers and HR professionals may need to provide more guidance and support to facilitate these discussions.