ALT-1 How to ask for a Pay Raise at Work
Does the thought of asking for a pay raise at work leave your knees shaking and your teeth chattering? It can be a challenging prospect, however if you truly deserve a pay raise, go for it. Different strategies can make this process easier.
Prepare yourself
Before you ask for a pay raise, do your research. Find out what others are making. Think about what you want to say to your boss, such as reasons why you deserve a pay raise. If you are nervous about it, then practice by yourself or with a friend.
Pick a good time
When going to ask for a pay raise, it is important to carefully choose your time. If your boss is rushed or stressed over something, he may be less likely to grant your request. If he is often busy, you may want to ask him to come to you when he has the chance.
Be friendly
Do not be too aggressive with your boss. Do not go in telling him that your pay is unfair and demanding a raise this very instant. Not only is he unlikely to give you a raise, but he might even fire you on the spot. Do not dawdle, but get right to the point that you want the raise.
Give reasons
You want your boss to think that you deserve the raise. You need to invoke empathy in him, and get him thinking in your way. Talk about how you have helped the company. If you have won any awards or performed very well, then speak about that. Make him understand why you are such an asset to the company.
You can also talk about reasons why the raise is deserved. In many jobs, people get a raise every year, if only for the cost of living. If three years have passed from your last raise, then you may want to mention this. He may not even know how long it has been since your last raise.
Sometimes invoking sympathy is the best. If you have had a life change such as a new baby or gotten married, then you might talk about the need for extra income. He may be more understanding.
You should be confident in yourself without being overly aggressive. Stay calm and just explain why you feel that you deserve the raise. Be sure to listen to his questions and concerns as well.
Asking for a raise can be difficult, but it is often granted. The above tactics can help you through this process.
