How to ask for a pay rise as an SEN Teacher (with examples)
So you've been working as an SEN teacher for a while now and feel like it's time to ask for a pay rise. Good for you! Asking for a salary increase can be nerve-wracking, but if you do it the right way, you're more likely to get what you want. In this blog post, we will give you tips on how to ask for a pay rise and provide some examples of letters and emails that have worked in the past. Let's get started!
Looking for SEN Jobs? Click here to search our current roles
What do you say when asking for a pay rise?
The first step is to do your research. Find out the average salary for an SEN teacher in your area, and make sure you ask for a reasonable amount. Then, you can use websites like Glassdoor or PayScale to get an idea of the going rate. Once you have a number in mind, it's time to start preparing your case.
Think about all the reasons why you deserve a pay rise and write them down. This could be things like working extra hours, taking on additional responsibilities, or going above and beyond in your job. Once you have a solid list of reasons, you can start to put together your argument.
Then, it's time to have a meeting with your boss. This can be an intimidating conversation but remember that you are worth more than you are being paid. Start by expressing your appreciation for your job. Then, state your case for a pay rise. Be clear, concise, and professional. If you have data to back up your request (e.g., statistics about the number of students you've helped or letters of appreciation from parents), be sure to include it.
Finally, be prepared for your boss to say no. Don't take it personally – sometimes there just isn't room in the budget. If that's the case, ask if there are other ways you can be compensated, such as more paid holiday days or flexible hours. If your boss still says no, then it might be time to start looking for a new job. But don't give up – you're worth it!
How much of a pay rise should you ask for?
This is a difficult question to answer, as it depends on several factors such as your current salary, how long you've been in your role, the cost of living in your area, and more.
However, a good rule of thumb is to ask for a pay rise to bring your salary up to the average for SEN teachers in your area. You can use this tool to determine the average wage for SEN teachers in your region.
When you're preparing to ask for a pay rise, it's essential to develop a strong argument for why you deserve one. Here are some things to consider:
- Have you taken on additional responsibilities since your last pay rise?
- Have you received positive feedback from parents or colleagues about your work?
- What impact has your work had on the students in your class?
It will be much easier to achieve your pay rise if you can make a strong case for why you deserve the salary increase. Be prepared to answer any questions your boss may have, and be ready to negotiate.
Is asking for a 15-25% increase too much?
This is a question that SEN teachers often ask themselves before requesting a pay rise from their employer. However, it's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – the amount you request will depend on your qualifications, years of experience, and the current market rate for SEN teachers in your area.
It can be challenging to determine how much you should ask when requesting a pay rise. Your boss may or may not be willing to give you the increase you are looking for, but it is essential to try. When asking for a pay rise, aim for a 15-25% increase in your salary. This will show that you are serious about your work and worth the investment.
If you have been a teacher for more than three years, have an advanced degree, or have taken on additional responsibilities in your position, then you may be able to ask for a higher increase. Be sure to do your research and come up with a reasonable and justified number.
There is no such thing as asking for too much if it matches the value you're adding and is aligned with the job market standards. The only time you'd be 'asking for too much is if your current salary is well above average and you're requesting a 50% raise - that would be excessive.
If you're currently being paid below the average salary for your role, then asking for a 15-25% pay rise isn't too much - in fact, it's actually relatively modest.
Remember, if your employer can't meet your salary requirements, then it's always worth exploring other career options.
Click here to search our current SEN Jobs
Example scripts for asking for a pay rise
Now it's time to actually ask for the salary increase. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common is through letters or emails.
Here's a job salary letter example:
Dear [Boss],
I hope you're doing well! I am writing to request a meeting with you to discuss my salary. I have been working as an SEN teacher for [number of years] and feel it is time to ask for a pay rise. I have researched and know that the average salary for an SEN teacher in this area is [amount]. I would like to discuss the possibility of receiving a salary increase to bring my pay up to this level. I am confident that I can continue to be a valuable member of your team and hope you will agree to meet with me to discuss this further. Thank you for your time!
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Other salary discussion templates
- 'I'm so grateful for this opportunity. I've been with this school for three years, and I feel like I've made a real difference in the lives of my students. I was hoping we could talk about my salary.'
- 'I know I haven't been here long, but I feel like I've already made a big impact. I'd love to stay with the school, but I need to support my family. Would it be possible to talk about a salary increase?'
- 'I'm not sure if now is the right time, but I wanted to put feelers out there about the possibility of a pay rise. My cost of living has gone up, and I think I'm due for a salary increase. What do you think?'
- 'I'd like to talk about the possibility of getting a pay rise. I've been working hard, and I feel like my performance has been exemplary. What would it take to get a pay rise?'
- 'Can we talk about my salary? I'm not happy with what I'm making, and I feel like I'm worth more.'
Saying goodbye is always hard, but sometimes it's necessary. For example, let your boss know if you're feeling frustrated with your salary. It's possible they don't know you're unhappy, and a conversation could lead to a pay rise.
If you're considering leaving your job, be honest about your reasons. For example, explain that despite loving your job, you need to support yourself and your family. Your boss may not want to lose you and may be willing to give you a pay rise.
Asking for a pay rise in the SEN industry
This task can be tricky. You want to be professional, but you also want to communicate your needs effectively. Here are a few tips and examples on how to ask for a pay rise in the SEN industry:
- Make sure that you have a clear and concise reason for why you feel you deserve a pay rise. This will help you communicate your needs effectively to your boss.
- Do your research! Find out the average salary for someone with your qualifications and experience in the SEN industry. This will help you back up your request for a raise.
- Be prepared to discuss your current salary and how it compares to the average salary in the industry. This will help your boss understand why you are requesting a pay rise.
- Be professional and polite when discussing your request for a pay rise with your boss. Remember, the goal is to reach an agreement that benefits both parties.
- If you don't feel comfortable asking for a pay rise face-to-face, consider sending an email or writing a letter to your boss. Again, this will help you communicate your needs clearly and concisely.
- Follow up with your boss after you've asked for a salary increase. Make sure that the discussion is still open and that both parties are on the same page.
Conclusion
Asking for a pay rise can be daunting, but if you approach it confidently and back up your request with data, you're more likely to get the salary increase you deserve. Be sure to do your research beforehand to know what the average salary is for your position in your area and come prepared with specific examples of how you've added value to your school.
If you're nervous about having the conversation, practice what you'll say beforehand with a friend or family member and remember to stay positive and be confident in your abilities. The worst that can happen is your boss says no, but hopefully, they'll see how valuable you are and give you the pay rise you deserve.
Good luck!
Do you have any other tips for asking for a pay rise as an SEN professional? Share them with us!
Looking for SEN Jobs? Click here to search our current roles