ALT-1 Get that Raise Negotiation Tips for the Timid
You want a raise, you need a raise, you deserve a raise, but you are too scared to approach the boss. Why? Well sometimes it is weakness in the stomach when someone feels the need to to assert themselves. I am sure we have all felt it at one point in time. Then there is the fear. If I ask the boss for a raise, he/she may see me as a liability, a cost to the company. In some cases, it may be the low self esteem - that nagging feeling that says, "I am not as good as I think". Or it may be "good girl', "good boy" syndrome, that tells us it isn't nice to beg. How do you overcome these fears and insecurities in order to get what you deserve?
First, do some soul searching. Write down all your accomplishments, achievements, challenges you overcame and contributions to the growth of your company. Don't leave out your personal life and community involvement. You will be surprised at how empowering this process is. I bet you feel less timid already.
Having established you deserve a raise, do some research on industry standards in terms of re-numeration in similar job positions. The more facts and figures you have to support your case, the more confident you will feel.
Listen to a personal improvement tape, you know, those "how to get what you want" motivational books or tapes. Do this regularly prior to approaching the boss. You will be inspired to go out and take the bull by the horns - well lets just concentrate on the boss.
Timing is also important. You do not want to ask for a raise, when the boss is extremely busy, in a bad mood, someone has just been laid off - you get the idea. The mood and conditions must be just right. You can also help set the stage by giving the boss some advanced notice of your intention to ask for a raise, during a more casual conversation around the water cooler, perhaps.
Do not go in expecting a let down, but be prepared for it. Plan how you will react and how you will handle the dreaded "no". No tears please. If you feel a tear coming, here is a tip - look up at the ceiling, I hear it dries those impending tears in a hurry. If the answer is no, don't hesitate to ask for direction on how you could improve your chances of getting a raise. But I am sure you won't have to worry about that. Congratulations!
