ALT-2 Get that Raise Learn Patience for your Answer
So you thought you'd get an answer on the spot when you asked for your raise? The truth is, that usually doesn't happen. You may be given a raise for various reasons, whether it be performance or cost-of-living. However, it may take some time for your employer get back to you if you've asked for a raise. This is because they need to think about how much money you've requested and whether or not it's more beneficial for them to provide it to you as opposed to finding someone new. It is also because they might need someone over their head to approve the raise. For these reasons, you need to demonstrate patience as you wait for your answer.
It is likely your employer will tell you they need to discuss your salary request and will get back to you. The best thing you can do during the interim is be on your BEST behavior. Work hard, be punctual, and find ways to improve your work and make good decisions. Go out of your way to do a great job so that it will leave an impression on them before they disuss your proposed salary increase.
If no one gets back to you in a week, send a gentle reminder such as an email asking what the outcome of the discussion was. Do not act pushy or frustrated that it has taken a while. Exercise your patience. It may be difficult to do so because money is involved, but do your best. Most of the time, you'll receive an answer within a couple of days after asking for your raise, whether it's yes or no. If it takes longer, and email shall suffice. Your boss would feel pretty ridiculous to not respond and appear unprofessional, especially if his/her office is a few feet away from you!
In the unlikely event that they do not respond within a week, DO NOT PANIC. Remember that you still have a job, and may even possibly be getting a raise! They might be waiting for the next payroll to make the decision. Ask your boss how long it usually takes to get a response about a request for a raise. At this point your boss will likely be honest and tell you whether or not that raise is going to happen.
If you find yourself without a response for a few weeks, the best bet is to assume you will not be getting a raise any time soon. If money is a problem, you should consider going to a new company. If you are disappointed that you didn't get a raise, but are fairly content at your job, give it a chance. Sometimes supervisors are not the best at communicating about money because it makes them feel uncomfortable. They may be waiting for the end of the year to provide a raise, but are concerned that you will not be patient about it.
