Be your best Want to be a strong leader? Karren Brady shares some advice on how to be a business success K arren Brady is a successful businesswoman and was the youngest MD of a UK plc at the age of 27. She is now turning mentor, giving her advice on all aspects of how you can succeed and make a positive impact in business. Here are some common questions Karren and her team have been asked along the way. How do I ask for a pay rise? When you go into the room with your boss, it's your golden opportunity so don't open the conversation by asking if it's OK to ask for a pay rise - if they say no you've already run out of options. This is your chance to champion yourself - no one is going to do it for you, so open the conversation by blowing your own trumpet. A lot of people find this difficult, but you need to let your employer 60 /// JOBS & CAREERS know why you are worth the money. Say, "During the time I've been in this position, I've done this, achieved that and taken on extra responsibility." Make sure to mention that you really like the company and that you've proved you're a good fit. Go in with a number in mind for your pay rise but don't storm out if you don't get that. It's OK to say you're disappointed if you're turned down or offered something lower, and you can say you're going to have to think about this because you're worth the amount you suggested. Ask your employer what the parameters are in order to achieve that figure and what the timeframe is in order to achieve it. Spend time telling your boss why they need to keep you and why you're indispensable - and reiterate you've done everything you've been asked. You need to come away from the meeting with the full pay rise or the promise that your salary will increase to the desired amount in the near future.