How to Ask For a Raise

The quickest way to increase your income is make more money at your current job.  Most people in America feel that they deserve a higher salary.  Those same people may never ask for that raise!  People often feel intimidated and that they lack the confidence to ask their boss for a raise.  Here we will discuss ways to appropriately ask for a raise so that you feel more confident sitting down with your boss.

First, review your work reputation.  Make sure you deserve the raise you are asking for.  Most bosses will ask why you think you deserve a raise.  If you can’t point to specific reasons, you may not get the raise you want.  Start by making a list of what you’ve accomplished and how they have benefited the company.  Also make a list of additional tasks or responsibilities you have taken over since your last raise or since being hired.  Being prepared with this information for when your boss asks, will put you in the running for that raise. 

Before speaking with your boss, set a pay increase rate in your mind.  If your boss is willing to give you some sort of raise, it probably won’t be as high as what you are asking for.  Know the amount you will find acceptable once you do speak with your boss. Then, do your research.  Find out the market pay rate for your job.  You can typically find this information online - but since online article aren’t regulated, the information may not be completely accurate so just use this as a guide.  If you are already about your market pay rate, it may be more difficult to negotiate a pay increase.

Now you are prepared to speak with your boss.  Ask him for a meeting that is conducive to his schedule.  When you do meet, present yourself as professional as possible.  Be straightforward with your request for a raise.  Address your accomplishments and how they have improved the company.  Talk about the added responsibilities you are now handling.  Be prepared to explain in detail and answer any questions your supervisor has. After all of the information is on the table, specify the amount you are requesting. This may be the time that the negotiation begins and your boss may offer you a lower rate raise.  Decide what is best for you and if the amount is enough for you.  If not, you may want to negotiate a little higher number - if it feels right to do so.  You don’t want to push your luck or look greedy.  Feel out the situation and then you’ll know what to do. We do not recommend that you use the threat of the salary of another job.  Not only will your employer question your loyalty, they may call your bluff!  Then you will be stuck without a raise and possibly without a job!  It is just too risky for most people and puts the employer in an awkward position towards you.  

We also do not recommend that you threaten to quit your job if you don’t get what you want.  This is highly unprofessional and will often upset your employer and make him disappointed in you; it will harm you more than you think it will help you.  In this economy, your boss may tell you that there just aren’t funds for a raise this year.  Or your supervisor may just say that you are not deserving of a raise at this time.  This may be hard news to receive but you must accept his explanation with professionalism - there is no need to get upset or hostile.  You may want to ask your boss if there is anything you can do to move up to a higher salary.  They may suggest that you take on further responsibilities or show more initiative.  They may also suggest that you further your education or further training in your specific field. 

Remember - it shouldn’t hurt to ask for a raise - as long as you do it properly!