There are times in life when you are fully conscious of the fact that you deserve more than the salary you currently draw.
At such times, it is no use to just be upset about the present state of things, instead you have to go out there and request for a pay raise! Understandably, this may be a sensitive topic so it is important to tread real carefully. Below are certain tips to take note of when you ask for a pay raise.
Step 1: Keep professional and watch your words
Be careful not to criticise the company, your colleagues or superiors directly or indirectly. Do remember that you’re going to continue working in the firm and that word gets around quickly. Make sure you keep the conversation on you and your career plan.
Step 2: Right time right place
First, do not ask for a pay raise when your boss is in a bad mood/ you just committed a blunder. Next, consider the current hierarchy and positions of people in your department as well as the movement of people in and out of your department. If there are plenty of changes going on, it may be a good time to broach the subject. Lastly, for those who may find it uncomfortable to be this forward, a viable option is to do it during your annual or semi-annual review.
Step 3: Initiate the meeting
If you choose to ask for a pay raise before the annual review, give your boss enough time to consider and plan by scheduling a meeting. Be bold and drop your boss an email stating your intentions and ask for his/her available dates. With a confirmed meeting, both your boss and you can think about points to bring up. By giving fair warning, there is no element of surprise and your boss is unlikely to say no straight away.
Step 4: Arm yourself with lists
Make a list of achievements you have accomplished for the firm and explain how these achievements have benefitted the company. Also, make a list of how you have met your job requirements and have gone the extra mile to take on additional responsibilities. While your efforts may be clear to you, sometimes it is necessary to remind others of your worth.
Step 5: Body language
When you’re finally at the meeting with your boss, make sure your conviction and composure is evident! No matter how confident your words are, if your body language suggests otherwise, your boss will begin to question how sure and how ready you are for this.
Step 6: Remember to listen
Don’t prattle on and on without giving your boss a chance to speak. Give him/her space and listen intently before addressing her concerns and points. While you may feel that you have plenty to say, it’s important to listen first and to tailor your prepared answers to remain relevant.
Final Step: Do not repeat your points over and over
A common tendency is to over emphasis key points by repeating them. Studies have shown that this actually affects your credibility in the eyes of others. State your points once firmly and wait for a response.
Good luck 😉
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