You’ve worked hard at your current job for over a year, and are ready to ask for a raise. But, how do you do it? The thought of walking into your boss’ office and asking him to raise your salary scares you to death. Rest assured, you can do this, and it won’t be as terrifying as you think it will be.
Be Confident
Confidence helps your professional image. Show your boss you are confident by standing up straight and making eye contact. Speak clearly and with your goal of securing a raise in mind. Don’t be arrogant, but be confident!
Don’t Beat Around the Bush
It’s best to get straight to the point when you ask for a raise. Preface your request with a few statements that tell your boss why you deserve to be paid more, then go directly into your request. When you begin your conversation, your boss will most likely know where it is headed, so no need to take forever getting to the point.
Talk About Results
When you are telling your boss why you deserve a raise, tell them about results you have helped the company achieve. For example, if you are asking for a raise of your project manager salary, tell your boss that the projects you have overseen have helped increase the bottom line. If you work as an accountant, mention the fact that the invoices you send out always go out on time. If you have recently been given more responsibility, this can be mentioned as another reason for a raise.
Be Willing to Compromise
It’s a fact of life that we don’t always get what we want. When you go in to ask for a raise, be prepared to compromise on time or amount. Maybe your boss can secure your raise if you can keep sales where they are for the next month. Or, maybe the company can give you a 10 percent raise, but not a 12 percent raise. If you’re willing to compromise, you’ll not only get more than you already have, but you’ll prove yourself to be a good team player.
Asking for a raise is scary. But, by being confident and communicating clearly, you can show your boss that the results you help bring to the company are worthy of a bigger pay check.