Use a plan when asking for a raise

You’ve worked really hard the past six months. You have taken on increased responsibilities and have delivered successful results. It’s time for a raise and you want one. The boss has told you what a great job you have been doing, but your hints about a raise have gone unnoticed. Now what? Don’t just sit back waiting for your boss to make the first move.

If you do, you may end up simply waiting until the next performance review, when you will get your automatic minimum raise if you’re lucky. You need to take charge of getting a raise for the results you have delivered. You need to learn “why,” “when,” “what,” and “how” to ask for that raise, to insure you get what you deserve now.

• Why? If you have improved upon your knowledge, worked hard to benefit your company and proven you are a valuable employee, you have good reason to ask for a raise. Your track record is what makes your request for a raise appropriate or not.
• When? Your timing is crucial. Try to check out your boss’s mood. If they are having a bad day or you know they are in the middle of problems, they won’t be receptive. If you’re company is facing financial problems it, too, is not a good time to ask. If recently you have made a few errors and the boss has brought them to your attention, please wait a little longer.Approach the boss when things are going well.Approach the subject when you have just done exceptional work and have been recognized for it.

  These are the optimum time opportunities when asking for that raise.

• What? First you need to decide on exactly what you want. You need to be realistic in deciding what your skills are worth. Don’t undervalue yourself or abilities.Try to find out what comparative salaries for your job are. Then decide how much you want. You should always ask for more and then negotiate.Remember, too, that there are types of raises other than monetary ones. Perhaps you could negotiate for a better insurance package, more vacation time or retirement benefits. Keep these other types of valuable compensation in mind.
• How? Once you have decided what it is you want, plan your strategy for asking for it. Get your “list” ready for the meeting. Plan what you will say and how you will present your case. Highlight yourself, listing all your accomplishments. Have answers ready for any questions your boss may have. Practice discussing the issue with your boss in advance. Make sure you emphasize your performance, abilities, worth and experience.Keep a professional attitude and be willing to negotiate. Keep a positive attitude throughout the meeting. If the boss brings up something negative, listen attentively and don’t become upset.Acknowledge what the boss said and then mention another positive. Always remember to keep focusing on your strengths. Explain why you want and deserve this raise. If you are friendly but professional, reasonable but firm, you will have a good chance of getting that raise.

  Don’t wait on your boss if you feel you really deserve a raise. Don’t let your fear or lack of know-how keep you from asking for that raise. You can get your raise once you know your “why,” “when,” “what,” “how,” strategy.