"Don't worry, the worst that can happen is you're no worse off," he said.
He said there are five things you can do to improve your pay.
STEP ONE
Figure out what you're worth and what value you add to the business, and write down what you're earning now and how much you'd like.
Depending on the nature of your job, as well as the conditions set out in your award or enterprise agreement, you boss may not be able to control your pay.
However, you may be able to negotiate with your boss for things like better shifts, or perks such as a parking space, so write them down too.
STEP TWO
Don't walk in and simply ambush your boss - prepare the ground by emailing them or mentioning you'd like a rise in a chat prior before you request a formal meeting.
That will give them time to think about it and work with you toward a solution.
STEP THREE
Plan the pay talks carefully - and think beyond your opening position.
Mr Hughes said you should assume your boss will initially say no, so it's important to have some contingency plans ready to go.
Always try getting something else before lowering your demand.
STEP FOUR
Don't worry about feeling uncomfortable. Your boss is probably a bit nervous as well and even if they can't give you a pay rise, they don't want to demotivate you or lose you.
STEP FIVE
Even if it doesn't work this time, you'd sown the seed of the idea that you're worth more than what you're currently getting paid.
To show you're motivated and invested in your job, ask your boss what you need to get in place for a pay rise and organise a review in six months.
Mr Hughes said you should avoid discussing your colleagues' wages, because it can give them an easy way to make an excuse, and you shouldn't threaten to leave because they may call your bluff.
You have nothing to lose by having the conversation - and according to finance expert David Koch, a raise could make up to $1 million difference over the course of your career.
