Asking for a raise can be a intimidating experience, but often you need to ask to receive the compensation you deserve. A little preparation and the right attitude can help you receive the best outcome and ensure the meeting goes smoothly regardless of the decision.

Preparation

The first step is research. Learn your company’s pay raise policy –if they only offer raises once each year, they’re unlikely to change that practice. Also research the market pay rates for your job – if you are currently getting paid lower than market value, it could help with negotiations.

Though a raise is always welcome, only initiate this conversation if you truly deserve a raise and can demonstrate why. Otherwise, your boss may feel like you’ve wasted his/her time.

Meet With Your Boss

• •  Set up a formal meeting with your boss as opposed to just popping into his or her office.
• •  Based on your research, outline the reasons why you deserve a raise. These reasons should include your accomplishments, skills and responsibilities within the company and could also address competitiveness in the market. Be sure to have written documentation to support all your claims. If you believe you are deserving, be confident in your achievements and value as an employee, not reluctant or apologetic for requesting a raise.
• •  If your boss tells you a raise isn’t possible now, ask what more you can do to warrant compensation increase in the future.
• •  Bow out gracefully if you are not getting what you are asking for. Thank your boss for considering your request.
• •  Do not threaten to quit, try to leverage another job offer or use personal financial need to justify a raise.

Follow Up

• •  If your manager gave you direction for how to improve your work, strive to meet those expectations. Offer to take on new responsibilities or find ways to take more initiative within your role.
• •  In a couple months, consider trying the conversation again if you can demonstrate improvement in your work or job skills.
• •  Regardless of the outcome, always perform your work at the same level you always have. This will show that you are fully committed and are happy with the organization. A good work ethic will pay off in the long run.