Do you feel that you are being underpaid for the construction job you are doing? If so, now might be the time to try and negotiate a pay rise with your employer. Should that prove unsuccessful then perhaps you might begin to think about applying for an alternative job in construction.

Does your construction job pay enough?

If you feel that your current wage fails to reflect the quality of work you carry out, then you might be wondering how to start negotiations with your employer. Before approaching your boss and slapping your demands on his desk, it is best to do some background research.

- Are individuals who are doing a similar construction role to you being better paid for their efforts?

- How much are you worth in your current construction job?

- What are your achievements, abilities and skills, and do they justify a pay rise?

Think long and hard about what you can use to highlight your case and prove your excellence. Once you have identified the areas that demonstrate your worth to the company, you need to work out what you will ask for.

Remember that your boss will probably attempt to barter with you, so it may be in your best interests to ask for slightly more than you really want in the first instance. Be realistic though - you don't want to put their back up right away.

Starting a new construction job elsewhere

If negotiations fail to get you the pay rise you desire, then you might begin looking around for another, better-paid construction job. If you manage to land an interview, think about your dealings with your current boss and what you have learned from them.

Use them to your advantage when meeting a potential new employer and remember the following tips ahead of your interview:

- Research the company and the job beforehand.

- Prepare a list of commonly asked questions and practise answering them.

- Be polite, speak clearly and be confident (but not arrogant) in the interview.

- Maintain positive body language throughout.

- Make allowances for any potential hold-ups and arrive a few minutes before the interview is due to start.

- Dress smartly and professionally.

- Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer at the end.

Be as well prepared as you can be and do all you can to impress the interviewer then you will be well on your way to landing that better-paid construction job.