The subject of asking for a raise makes many people cringe. Although the process is intimidating and uncomfortable, please understand that it is acceptable to ask for a raise. If your company does not offer annual salary increases, asking might be the only way to get a raise.
Do not be uncomfortable. Asking for a raise does not need to be a complicated ordeal. If you do your research and have facts to back up your request, you will feel much more confident when asking.
Have Confidence; You’ve Got This!
Get an Early Start
Before you rush and ask for a raise, remember that timing is everything. Bring up the subject months before quarterly or annual performance reviews if possible. This meeting is your time to talk with your supervisor to understand what you need to do to get a raise. Understand there might be circumstances beyond your control, like company success and team budget. But just starting the conversation makes it easier to follow up later. And remember to be selective with your timing.
Make your Case With Accomplishments
Most employers offer an annual cost-of-living raise. If you deserve a separate raise, explain why the company should reward your accomplishments. Forget sharing a long list of everything you do. Just highlight those occasions or projects where you went above and beyond.
Be prepared to share what you did, how you did it, and why it was necessary. Your manager can make a powerful argument for you to the higher-ups when they understand the context of your contributions and the results they delivered.
Statistics
Knowing what others with similar jobs or responsibilities get paid helps make your case. Are you underpaid? Ask for a raise to match market standards. If you are not, research and list achievements to explain why you deserve more than the average. When researching, check out Glassdoor, LinkedIn, PayScale, and Salary.com. You can also apply for other jobs and use the offers to negotiate a raise.
Be Specific
When asking for a pay raise, be detailed with the request and use your research findings to back it up. If your company feels the financial strains of inflation and shortages and tries to cut costs, a monetary raise will probably not happen. If a pay increase is not an option, come up with alternatives that will make you happy, such as:
- Additional paid time off
- Flexible hours
- Remote days
- Stock options
- Bonus opportunities
It Doesn’t Hurt to Have a Plan B
Rejection is discouraging, so it is vital to think through your options. Consider asking follow-up questions and what needs to happen for you to progress in the company. Perhaps a certification or a higher-paying career path at your company. You can update your resume if you think it might be time to leave your current situation. Wood Personnel Services can help you find the best administrative, professional, or industrial jobs in Middle Tennessee if you are ready.
