How to Ask for a Raise and Get It

Money is serious business, but also a sensitive topic with many workers. It can make or break your job satisfaction and it’s essential—after all, you need to pay your bills, and it’s nice to have some left over to add to your quality of life. Though money isn’t the only thing (for example, it’s not your only motivating factor: it’s much more important to love what you do), it’s still an important aspect of your career. So if you feel your hard work isn’t being adequately compensated, what can you do?

Formulate a plan and talk to your boss

It’s usually better to be direct, and wanting a raise is no exception. It’s time to plan what you’ll say and talk to your boss. You can present your case in a thoughtful, professional way with the following steps:

1. Research the job market.

What are others in your field making? You can gather an estimated range through research on job sites such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or glassdoor.com. You must also take your location into consideration, as big cities tend to offer higher wages than smaller towns.

2. Think about your skills and accomplishments.

As you build your case, think about what you offer the company. What have you accomplished in the past six months to a year that helped move the business ahead? How have you grown in your role beyond the salary level you currently command?

3. Choose the right timing.

If your company has recently been acquired or finances are uncertain, it’s probably not the best time to ask for a raise.

4. Plan exactly what you’ll say.

Write it out if you have to. You’ll want to open with something like, “I’d like to discuss my compensation” and then move into what you’ve done for the company, and what others in your field are currently making.

5. Schedule 1:1 time with your boss.

This is not a “Hey, by the way… ” conversation to have over the water cooler. Instead, contact your boss and set aside 30 minutes or so to discuss this in private. After all, it’s important!

6. Know how you might respond.

It’s possible your boss will say no. Based on the reasoning, what will your next action be? If it has to do with performance, you could simply ask, “What steps do you need me to take to move to the next level?” and come away with to-do list. If it has to do with something else, will you give it time and then ask again? Or will you begin looking for a new job?

What’s your next step?

If you’re successful in getting a raise, this is a promising landmark in your career. But if not, you may want to evaluate how to move ahead. If this includes looking for a new job, just contact Inter-Connect. We work with candidates with light industrial and office positions, and we’re waiting to talk to you! To learn more, contact us today.