If you think you've always done a great job, don't be afraid to ask your boss for a raise. Many people are afraid to ask for a raise even if they know they deserve it; they find excuses like "The economy is in such a crisis now …" or "I can never find the right moment". If you recognize yourself in this description, it's time to change your attitude and start making a strategic plan to get that pay raise you deserve. If you want to know how, just keep reading.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Gather Information
Step 1. Make sure you have something to leverage
Getting a raise is pretty difficult unless you have something to use to your advantage, such as finding a new job with your performance regularly going beyond what is currently required, effectively and consistently.
- If you are a great employee, a good company will always manage to find a little extra to keep you satisfied. However, keep in mind that they will certainly try some tactics to discourage you, for example by saying that they have already exceeded the annual budget. This means that you must be persistent and aware of your value, evaluating it on objective criteria (read further to find out more).
- If you've already negotiated for your payout, your boss will be hard pressed to grant you a raise. He'll assume you're satisfied and won't be willing to add another burden on the company's finances for no good reason.
- Be careful if you use another job offer to leverage your boss - he may leave the decision up to you or refuse the raise, so it's important not to bluff. You must be ready to face the consequences!
Step 2. Be realistic
If the company is already off balance sheet and is in crisis due to the recession, cuts or for many other reasons, it would be better to wait for a better time. During the recession, many companies won't be able to give you a raise without putting everyone's work at risk. However, this doesn't mean you should use this as an excuse to delay your request indefinitely.
Step 3. Learn about company policies
Read the employee guide (and company intranets if any) or, better yet, talk to someone from Human Resources. Here are some things to know:
- Does your company apply annual reviews to determine salaries?
- Are salary increases governed by fixed tables or by location?
- Who can make the decision (or ask for it to be implemented)?
Step 4. You must be aware of your worth on an objective basis
It is easy to believe that you are worth a lot, especially if you commit 110% every day, but you have to prove it objectively by ascertaining your worth compared to those who work in the same field. Many employers say they don't grant a raise until the employee does 20% more work than when he was initially hired. Here are some elements to consider:
- The job description
- Responsibilities, including any management or administration duties
- Years of experience and seniority in the company
- Educational level
- Position
Step 5. Collect some market data on similar positions
While this may be something you took into consideration when negotiating your salary, the role and responsibilities may have changed in the meantime. Look at similar levels in the industry to see how much others are getting paid for work similar to yours. Find out the salary range that is usually paid to people in your region or area who do the same job as you. Having the market data for comparable positions can help you feel more informed when speaking to your boss. You can check this data on Salary.com, GenderGapApp or Getraised.com.
While this information is helpful in supporting your proposition, it should not be used as a primary argument for getting a pay raise; they inform you about what you are potentially worth, not your boss
Step 6. Keep up to date with industry trends in your sector
Consult at least one of the trade magazines regularly and be sure to discuss the future with your colleagues.
- You should also always keep your eyes on the horizon and regularly visualize future avenues for your company and industry in the sector. At the end of each month, be sure to take the time to consciously and critically examine the paths ahead for the future.
- Being able to anticipate all the necessary interventions will help you in your day-to-day operations and in your ability to renegotiate your wages. You will be able to find the right path for the future, making your company capable of capitalizing on possible market changes.
Part 2 of 4: Prepare the Proposal
Step 1. Make a list of everything you've accomplished
It would be best to use accurate measures such as quality improvement, customer satisfaction, and most importantly, revenue growth. This list has the function of reminding you of your value, making it legitimate and providing objective bases for your requests.
- Some people believe that it is useful to create a list of their successes to present to the boss, others believe instead that the results should already be evident and you should only highlight the most important ones to point out and remind your boss of the things he is already about. knowledge. It depends on what you know about your boss's preferences, the type of relationship you have with him, and how confident you are in discussing your goals verbally.
- If you choose to persuade your boss verbally, you need to memorize the list.
- If you choose to submit a written copy so that I can use it as a reference, you must have the proof corrected before submitting it.
Step 2. Review your work history
Pay close attention to the projects you've worked on, the problems you've helped solve, and how business and profits have improved since you started. You don't just have to check that you've done your job well, which is the minimum, but how far you've gone beyond your simple responsibilities. Here are some questions to consider:
- Have you completed or contributed to a complex project? Did you get positive results?
- Did you work overtime or did you meet urgent deadlines? Have you continued to demonstrate this kind of dedication?
- Have you taken any initiatives? How?
- Did you try harder than necessary? How?
- Did you save the company time and money?
- Have you improved any systems or procedures?
- Have you offered your support to other employees? Have you contributed to their training? As Carolyn Kepcher says, "The rising tide lifts all the boats" and the boss would be delighted to hear that you have helped your colleagues.
Step 3. Reflect on your future role within the company
In this way you show your boss that you are always one step ahead, taking an interest in the development and future of the company.
- You must have long-term goals that the company can benefit from in the future.
- Keeping an employee happy is less tiring than the hassle of hiring another one. Don't say this explicitly, but just emphasize your interest in staying with the company to remind your boss.
Step 4. Determine the type of raise you want
It is important not to appear greedy, but to remain rather realistic and reasonable.
- If you feel comfortable with your position, link the salary increase to the profit increase linked to previous expectations and successes for the foreseeable future. If you expect to be able to land a high-paying project or close a large contract in the next few months, it could be the basis of your salary increase (if not more). If your boss needs to be able to justify your raise, the aforementioned constraint can certainly be beneficial to both of you.
- Don't use the strategy of negotiating from a much higher price - this tactic doesn't work with raise requests, because your boss would think you are simply trying to pull the rope to exploit the company motivated by your greed.
- Refer to the monthly payments, so that the increase does not seem too high; for example, he explains that it would be an extra € 40 per week rather than € 2080 per year.
- You may be asking for more than just the raise. Perhaps you would settle for physical assets instead of money, such as stock or shares in the company, clothing allowance, rent allowance, or even a promotion. Ask for a company car or a better one. As appropriate, discuss benefits, titles, and changes to your responsibilities, assignments, and job management.
- Be prepared to negotiate and eventually find a compromise. Even if you haven't asked for anything surreal, chances are your boss will try to negotiate if he's willing to accept the request.
Step 5. Don't be afraid to ask
While it can be difficult to get a pay raise, it's even worse to fall into the mentality of never asking for it.
- In particular, women are often afraid to ask for a pay raise so as not to appear demanding or pushy. See this as an opportunity to show that your interest is in developing a career that benefits your job as well as yourself.
- Negotiation is a learned skill. If you are afraid of this, take a break to learn and practice it in different contexts before making an approach with your boss.
Step 6. Choose the right time
Timing is a key ingredient for a successful deal. What did you do during a demonstrable period of time that made you more valuable to the business or organization? There is no point in asking for a pay raise if you haven't demonstrated anything surprising for the firm yet - regardless of how long you work there.
- The right time is when your value to the organization is clearly high. This means that you have to strike while it is hot and ask for a pay raise following great successes, such as a very successful conference, after receiving fantastic feedback by getting a contract with a great client, for producing outstanding work that outsiders praised, etc.
- Don't pick a time when the company has just suffered major losses.
- Asking for a pay raise based purely on a "time factor" is dangerous, because it makes you look like a timekeeper, rather than someone interested in the advancement of the company. Never tell your boss, "I've been here for a year and deserve a pay raise." He would reply: "So what?".
Part 3 of 4: Asking for the Raise
Step 1. Make an appointment to speak with your boss
Set aside some time. If you go and ask for a raise, you will seem unprepared - and you will feel like you don't deserve it. You don't have to warn it too soon, but look for a moment of privacy where you know you won't be interrupted. For example, when you come in to work in the morning, you have to say, "Before I go out, I'd like to talk to her."
- Remember that it is much easier to decline an email or letter request than a direct confrontation.
- Most people are given raises and promotions on Thursdays, so this is a good day to meet. If you can't meet on Thursdays, though, try to avoid Mondays, when there are a lot of chores, or Fridays, when your boss may already have other plans in mind.
Step 2. Introduce yourself well
Be confident, but not arrogant, and keep a positive attitude. Speak politely and clearly, it will help you stay calm. In the end, remember that it probably won't be that hard; the worst part is finding the courage to step forward! When talking to your boss, lean a little towards him as you sit down. This will increase the safety towards the goal.
- Start by saying how much you love your job. Starting with a personal note will help create a human bond between you and your boss.
- Keep talking about your results. This way, you will immediately show him the reason for the request.
Step 3. Ask for the increase in precise terms and then wait for his answer
It is not enough to say: "I want a raise". You have to tell your boss how much extra money you want in terms of percentage; for example 10% more. You can also speak in terms of how much you want your annual salary to increase. Whatever you say, you need to be as specific as possible so that your boss notices that you really thought about it. Here are the things that can happen:
- If it's a firm "no," read on to the next step.
- If she tells you she needs to think about it, find another time to bring it up again in the future.
- If he gives you the raise immediately, tell him "You don't agree until he's sure you want to" so that the decision is effective, then proceed with thanks (see below).
Step 4. Thank your boss for their time
This step is important, regardless of the response you received. You can also go "further" by giving your boss more than he expects of you, such as a thank you card or lunch invitation to thank him. Consider sending an email later, even if you've thanked him multiple times.
Step 5. Get the boss to keep his promise
If the answer was yes, the last hurdle is actually receiving the raise. It is always possible that he forgets or changes his mind by backing off. Don't rush to conclusions: Before celebrating, wait for the increase to take effect. A lot of things could go wrong, for example your boss could face resistance in the upper echelons, or he could have problems with the budget and so on.
- Look for a sneaky way to make him feel guilty if he has to reconsider (e.g. hint that employee morale depends on promises kept or something). Use a lot of tact and wit.
- Ask when the increase will take effect. If you want to be subtle, ask if you need to sign something.
- Take it a step further by saying to your boss, "I guess it will take effect by the end of the month, after all the documents have been approved." This way, you will force him to initiate the process.
Part 4 of 4: Coping with Rejection
Step 1. Don't take it personally
If this is making you more sour and affecting your performance, the boss will think he made the right decision. If you gain a reputation for having a negative attitude or not accepting feedback, your boss will be even less likely to give you a raise. After the boss gives you his final verdict, you need to be as polite as possible. Don't rush out of the room and don't slam the door.
Step 2. Ask your boss what you can do differently
This shows your willingness to take his opinion into account. Perhaps you could agree on an increase in responsibilities and positions that, over time, will lead you to fill another role with a higher salary. This will also demonstrate your commitment to your job and your ability to work hard. Your boss will see you as an enterprising person and you will be on his radar when the next raise season opens.
If you are a great employee and your performance is steady, ask for a raise again after a few months
Step 3. Send a thank you email
It is a written, dated document that you can use in future negotiations to remind your boss when exactly he denied you the raise. It will also remind your boss how grateful you are for the conversation you had and show him that you can get things done.
Step 4. Insist
It is now clear that you want a raise; your boss may worry that you are looking for another job. Decide when you will ask for the raise again. Until then, try to put a lot of effort into your work to achieve excellent results. Don't give up just because you're disappointed that you haven't had the augmentation yet.
Step 5. Consider looking elsewhere if the situation doesn't change
You should never settle for less than you deserve. If you are aiming higher than the company intends to offer you, it might be better to apply for a different position with higher pay, in the same company or another. Think carefully: You don't need to burn your bridges just because your conversation with your boss didn't go well.
It's best to stick with it and try to work towards that raise for a little longer. But if it's been months and you haven't gotten the recognition you deserve despite the hard work, then look at what other companies have to offer
Advice
- It is not a good idea to justify asking for the raise by simply stating: "I need the money". It is a better idea to emphasize your value to the company in order to demonstrate that you deserve a pay raise. Documenting your accomplishments is a good way to do this. For example, you can include your accomplishments in a "presentation" to show your boss, on a note to refer to while you are negotiating the pay rise, or in a letter asking for an appointment to discuss it. Be specific, use examples.
- Analyze your job responsibilities and current expectations. Make sure you do your homework without anyone urging you on or covering your back. Then, try to understand what could be improved with modifications, classifications or changes in procedures. Remember that executives do not grant the increase to those who do the bare minimum, but they reward those who excel in their work.
- You have to induce a wage increase, not ask for it. For example, you could tell your boss that you'd like to know what you should do to increase your salary or hourly wage in the near future, instead of insisting on a pay raise for your past successes.
- Before asking for a pay raise or raise, make sure you have completed all ongoing projects and have no outstanding issues. Asking for a raise while there is a job in progress rarely works. Remember that timing is key!
- Try to have a reasonable amount in mind (for example, taking a cue from salary market research) and be prepared to negotiate. Be gentle but firm when negotiating and don't be emotional. Remember: it's business, not personal matters. If your employer doesn't give you a satisfactory pay raise, try negotiating concessions in the form of performance-based bonuses or holiday bonuses, perks, or benefits. Whatever you manage to negotiate, ask for it to be put in writing with the necessary authorization signatures.
- Check your company policy manual (or similar document) for information that relates to how to ask for a salary increase. For example, if there is a specific rule, you will need to follow it to the letter. But if a rule unconditionally states that the employer will never grant a raise out of schedule, it might be a good idea to put up with it until your next review and request a higher-than-expected pay raise. Asking for such an increase will certainly give better results than trying to oppose the system.
- Upgrade your qualifications if you can. You do not have to wait for the increase to fall out of the sky and do not present your case by betting everything on seniority. If you have better qualifications, it means you can offer your employer something more. Take a course, take a certification or license, take the initiative and learn new things. Then, use the results to prove you are worth more than before.
- Follow the chain of command when asking for a raise. For example, if your first contact is a supervisor, don't override him to go to the department manager. Instead, approach your immediate supervisor first and let them tell you which practice to follow.
- Many companies receive industry salary surveys. Ask your boss to consult those tables to determine your new salary, especially if you think your salary is lower than that of your co-workers. So you will give credit to your carefully studied comparisons.
- Try asking for more responsibility to justify your raise. This question will be better received than simply asking to make more money, especially if your current responsibilities don't require you to do much beyond your duty and if your employer thinks you're getting paid adequately.
Warnings
- Keep the discussion focused on work and your worth. Do not mention personal problems - for example, financial difficulties - to justify the request. This is business and it would be best not to show your weaknesses to your boss. Just discuss the value of your service.
- Employers generally have enormous negotiation experience. Therefore, the biggest mistake an employee can make is to get unprepared for the negotiation.
- Think carefully before threatening to resign if you don't get a pay raise. It rarely works. No matter how valuable you think you are to your company - don't make the mistake of believing you are indispensable. Hardworking workers willing to learn your job for lower pay are almost always waiting in the wings. If you quit later for lack of a raise, try to be careful what you say in your resignation letter so that you don't turn against you later.
- Be optimistic. Do not take this opportunity to complain about the administration, colleagues, working conditions and so on. Also, don't drag other people into the discussion as a comparison, as it would seem like an affront to them, even if you are praising them. If for some reason you should raise a problem, present it politely and, at a different time, come back to propose solutions and suggestions about it.
- Remember that your boss has to struggle with deadlines and budgets.
