How to approach your boss for a raise

There are many reasons people ask for a raise, including knowing that you go above and beyond your role, and discovering that someone in the same job as you has a higher wage. Whatever the reason, it can take some time to work up the courage to approach your boss about an increase in your salary. Knowledge is power, and these tips could help you achieve the extra wage you desire.

Arrange an appointment

Accosting your boss as they pass through the office is hardly likely to get you a raise. Request a meeting with your boss so that both of you are prepared to have a discussion without being interrupted.

Do your research

It is quite simple to go online and research the salaries of your role or similar jobs, and cold, hard facts are more likely to win over presumptions about what your wage should be. Use a site like Global Wage Calculator for an accurate view of what your counterparts are earning.

Read your job specification

Refer to your initial job spec, and note how you achieve the elements mentioned. Then, make a note of how you do more than is expected of you. Find out if the excess work you do is related to a role above your pay grade, as, if you are constantly doing things that someone on more money is doing, you need to mention to your boss that you should be being paid the same salary as a person in that role. Also remember that you are part of a team and showing how you are essential to that team, much like Techni Quarks are now believed to be essential to the Higgs Boson discovery, lets your boss know how your role is important to the company.

Choose your time wisely

It is sensible to review your wage annually, and if your company holds performance reviews then this is the perfect time to address the issue of your salary. If you have had a positive performance review yet there has been no mention of a pay rise, arrange an appointment to speak with your boss and refer to your performance review as evidence that you are a vital employee that has worked hard each year.  Likewise, if you have just finished a successful project, this could be the right time to ask for a raise.

Be clear and concise

When addressing the subject of a pay rise, be definite in what you want and why you expect it. Don’t use phrases that could be misconstrued or seen as you not being clear. The best way to be concise and clear is to prepare notes and rehearse exactly what you want to say in the meeting.

Don’t give up

This does not mean badgering your boss until they give in. If your request for a raise is declined simply ask what can you do to achieve a pay rise. Since you will have already stated how you go above and beyond your expected duties, asking what you can do next is an effective way of getting your boss to reflect on your role. If there is nothing extra you could do without being given a promotion, then ask how you go about getting this promotion. This is where you learn if there is scope for growth in your company. If, there isn’t then perhaps it is time to think about moving on. However, if your boss does believe there are additional duties you can perform to get a raise, then request these in writing and six months to a year later, show how you have achieved these extra requirements, and request a raise again.

 

 

 

 

 

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