Asking for a raise is hard. The truth is, no matter what, it will never be easy breezy.
Talking about money with the person who holds your employment status in the palm of his or her hand is just about as nerve-wracking as it gets. And that's ok! There are tips that will help you deal with this difficult, but necessary life step.
If you feel like you are under-compensated for the amazing work you're doing at a job that you love while others around you may slack, there are very few reasons not to ask for a raise. The worst that could happen is that your boss says no, and you both carry on with your lives. The best that could happen is that you get a bigger chunk of change in your paycheck, and are able to further pursue your life goals.
These 10 tips will help prepare you for this chance to improve your life. If you never ask, you'll never get it, so what are you waiting for?
Please SHARE these important ideas for nabbing a raise with your family and friends on Facebook!
1. Do The Research
Before you pick a number out of the blue, go online and find out what percentage of a raise is normal for the position you're in and within your industry. You need to know the game before you can play it, so have a few statistics in your back pocket before you walk into any meetings.
2. Know Your Number
You should always have a number in mind after you do your research. Honestly gauge what you're worth and ask for that.
3. Be Confident
Armed with the numbers and the statistics, and the knowledge of what you are really worth, you should have no problem coming across as confident. Negotiating a raise is something that happens all the time in the business world, and you shouldn't count yourself out of a higher salary just because you aren't someone that relishes difficult conversations. Hold your head high.
4. Be Ready To Negotiate
If you need to practice beforehand, then do it! Negotiating can be intimidating, but this is something that you have to do on your own if you really want that raise. Find a friend or family member who is tough when it comes to these conversations and give it a practice run.
5. Don't Undermine Your Boss
Just because you have all the facts and know your worth doesn't mean that you have the right to undermine your boss, and there is a thin line between negotiations and an argument. Keep it civil and depersonalized. Talk about the work you do and your strengths as an employee, and do not let feelings get in the way! Make sure you give them time to respond to your case, too.
6. Give Your Boss Fair Warning
Schedule a meeting with your boss at least a few days ahead of time so that you both have time to prepare for the meeting. Simply say you'd like to have a discussion about your career growth with the company and leave it at that.
7. Start And Stay Positive
It's so important to let your boss know that you like working at the company, and to remind him or her of all of your accomplishments. Start off with a compliment to the company and the work you do as a whole, then get specific about how you've grown, how you've contributed, and what makes you outstanding.
8. Ask For Endorsements
Getting co-workers' and other managers' good word will only reinforce your case for a raise. Ask around and see who would be willing to send an email, talk on the phone with, or meet in person with your boss.
9. Give It Time
Your boss may have to think over the raise, look at the available budget, and/or bring it to higher-ups. Your answer may not come for another few days.
10. Time It With Company Growth
Look at your company's trajectory leading up to when you want to ask for a raise. If the company is on the rise, you're more likely to get a higher salary, but if you've just suffered a loss of a big client, or something of equal detriment, then it may not be the best time to schedule a meeting.
Were you planning on asking for a raise soon, but couldn't get up the courage? Please SHARE with your family and friends!
