Contributed by Pamela Z.
Asking for a raise is difficult for most people. We are stopped by limiting beliefs which might include: they will think I’m greedy; we are in hard economic times; they know what I’m doing and will reward me; I’ll be fine with the standard raise; they will do the right thing. All of these beliefs may appear to be valid, but it is really your fear talking. Across all of my jobs I have received raises, bonuses, promotions or perks, within three months of starting the job. Every year, if not every six months, I renegotiate again. Oh, and I have never been turned down. What do I do that is so special?
Ingredient 1 – I keep track of all of my successes from my first day. Did you find unpaid invoices, collect overdue bills, save the company money somehow? Make a note of what you did and how much money you made for the company. Are you able to tackle lots of projects because you are organized? You have saved the company time and money. Even if it seems small write it down, it all adds up.
Ingredient 2 – Check out your job description. What skills are you using to meet this description? What extra skills are you bringing in that no one else has? Where have you brought beyond your job description to get the job done?
Ingredient 3 – Schedule a meeting and ask for the raise. Do not apologize before hand. Starting with “I am sorry to have to ask you” or “I know we are having a rough time financially” is supplying your boss with the excuse you will accept when they tell you no. Instead start of by stating your skills and the financial value you have added to the company, then talk about how you think you merit a raise.
Ingredient 4 – Do not accept no. If they cannot give you a financial raise due to budget constraints, ask for extra paid time off, sick days, transit checks, free lunches, etc. These perks will also benefit you financially.
Ingredient 5 – Do not threaten to quit if they don’t give you the raise. Check out other companies to see what they are paying their employees, maybe switching will give you the raise you desire.
Good luck and remember you are worth it!
Do you have any other ideas to improve the chances of getting a raise? We invite you to share your tips in the comment box below.
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