Asking for a raise is outside of a lot of people’s comfort zones. You may be afraid to get turned down, feel plain awkward about asking, or simply just don’t know how to go about it. Yes, it would be nice if you were offered a raise, but shockingly, things don’t always happen that way. You sometimes have to ask for one! Don’t let fear hold you back from getting the compensation you deserve. Below are some tips to help you be prepared and confident when you sit down with your boss.
Do Your Research
It is important to know what your work is worth and what is being paid to similar positions both in and outside of your company. Understanding the market rate for the job you do will help you better gauge if you are earning on the higher or lower scale while giving you an idea of what is reasonable to ask for.
Pick Your Moment
Do your best to understand when the best time is to ask. This varies company to company depending on culture. For some, this may be after you have completed your first year of employment, while others assess salaries at the end of the calendar year or after the holidays. Timing is everything!
Honest and Open Conversation
This is a good habit to practice even when you are not thinking of asking for a raise. Share your goals and ask for feedback from manager on how best to achieve them. Communicating your long-term aspirations to your boss is a non-aggressive way to outline a path for you at the company Be clear that while you prioritize your current role, you are also hoping to grow your skillset and move up through the ranks.
Take on Responsibility
Once you have mastered your current role, you can start to take on projects that you would hope to tackle after a promotion or raise. Use your time management skills to effectively show your superiors how much more you can bring to the table. Show them that not only can you handle your current tasks with ease, you also are more than capable of tackling greater responsibilities.
Practice Your Pitch
You do not need to deliver a lengthy monologue when making the ask. You are busy and so is your employer. Most of the time, it is best to be succinct. Touch on the reasons you believe you deserve a raise, how you have contributed to the company thus far, and be prepared to name a ballpark figure if asked. Practice your pitch with a friend or family member so you are able ace your pitch on the day.
No matter how prepared you are, there is always the possibility that your boss will tell you “no”. Or “maybe”. Or that they will “need more time”. Don’t let this discourage you! Be clear with your superior about what future steps are needed to follow up. Always look to the future and inquire as to when you may be able to broach the conversation again. Regardless of the answer, use this as a chance to ask about areas that you could improve in. If you walk away from the meeting believing there is no chance of a raise, you may need to assess your future at the company. Whether you stay or leave, you will have a better understanding of your own worth within the workforce, allowing you to make the right decisions for your career (and your wallet).