1. Book an appointment with your boss to make it official. However laidback your work place may be, asking for a pay rise in a matter-of-fact way may well elicit a tongue-in-cheek rejection. Arrange the meeting at a time when you are feeling confident about your recent performance and your boss isn’t under too much pressure.

2. Treat the meeting as you would a job interview. That means appearing professional, confident and word perfect. Maintain eye contact, watch your posture and keep a friendly demeanour.

3. Present yourself as you would a report, highlighting your achievements and endeavours to further company success. Mention how much you enjoy working there and where you fit in with future developments.

4. At the end of your presentation, come out with it straight: ‘therefore I feel deserve a pay increase.’ Have a definite amount in mind but don’t be unwilling to negotiate. Avoid attaching terms like ‘I kind of feel’, or ‘you should’, because you don’t want to appear half-hearted or demanding.

5. Even if you’re happy with the offer, it’s not greedy to talk about other benefits such as a pension or company car. It shows you mean business.

6. If your offer is rejected, don’t throw a tantrum. But don’t give in either. Politely ask why and how soon you can negotiate a pay review. Don’t threaten to walk out, but by all means suggest that if the situation doesn’t improve you may be left with no option other than to seek employment elsewhere. Whatever the outcome, be sure to shake hands and say thank you.