It’s never easy to ask your boss for a raise, but if you’ve earned it, you’ve earned it.
Listen, we are more than aware of the fact that nobody really likes having this conversation. In fact, there are so many people who will actively avoid asking for a pay rise in work, purely because they want to avoid the awkward encounter with their boss. Step one: please don’t be that person.
At the end of the day, if you work hard, and have proven yourself, there really is no reason why you shouldn’t speak to your boss about getting a pay increase. And when you do pluck up the courage to speak about a raise, be sure to consider the following…
It’s normal (honestly!)
The most important thing to remember is that asking for a raise doesn’t make you greedy. Its a perfectly normal thing to do, and people ask for salary increases pretty much every day. So, please don’t feel guilty or uncomfortable about having the conversation. Remember, if you’ve been working hard enough to warrant a raise, your boss will more than likely be expecting the salary discussion.
Think about the timing
Okay so the last 12 months are a perfect example of this point. The last thing you want to do is ask for a raise at the wrong time, shooting yourself in the foot slightly. Be aware of the financial situation of the company, the economic climate, or if your boss has just been a bit off. Gauge the situation before launching in, and be intelligent with your timing.
Read your contract
Make sure you have a good read over your employment contract before arranging to meet with your manager to discuss a salary increase. A lot of companies have a specific period during the year when they give out raises, which may be highlighted in your contract. Keep that in mind.
Do your research
Before you go to speak with your manager, make sure you’ve done your research, and you know what to ask for. There’s no point in going in with a number that is either selling yourself short, or that may be a bit too ambitious. Actually, the best thing to do is some research into industry standard salaries. If you head over to the Indeed Salary calculator, it will give you an idea of what kind of figure to go looking for from your boss (you’re welcome).
Focus on your wins
When you go in to ask your boss for a raise, don’t just swan in and say you want more money (that won’t work 90% of the time). You have to show them why you deserve it. Focus on all you have achieved in your time in the company, bring back to prove these achievements, which may be stats or figures of some kind. Try not to focus on how long you have been working there, or that you may ‘need more money’. Your boss will respond best to the fact that you’re an asset, and deserve a raise.
You deserve it! good luck.
