Whitepaper
Pay review planning: Factors to consider for 2026
For HR and reward professionals, the end of the year brings a familiar challenge — planning pay reviews and setting salary budgets for the year ahead. With economic uncertainty, shifting labour markets and growing pay transparency expectations, getting pay review planning right has never been more critical.
Our latest guide, Pay review planning – factors to consider, helps you approach the 2026 pay review season with clarity and confidence. Backed by fresh Brightmine data and expert insight, it breaks down the key elements to shape an effective and defensible pay strategy.
You don’t have to plan in the dark. Download your FREE guide today.
Download our Pay review planning guide today
What’s inside
Our new guide explores four essential factors that influence successful pay review planning — helping you benchmark with confidence and build a pay strategy that aligns with your business goals.
Timing
Understand when most pay awards take effect across sectors, from January and April peaks to sector-specific cycles, so you can anticipate patterns and align your review schedule.
Aims and objectives
Define the purpose behind your pay review. Whether matching cost of living, maintaining market position, or supporting retention, ensure your pay policy meets both HR and business priorities.
Data sources
Discover where to find the most reliable market pay data, and why employer-reported survey data is critical for accurate benchmarking.
Budget constraints
Balance reward ambitions with affordability. Learn what’s driving 2026 pay pressures and how to model different pay increase scenarios using Brightmine Compensation Planning tools.
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