How to Nicely Ask for a Raise

Timing is key when requesting a raise.

Requesting a pay raise at work can sometimes be a tricky situation. After all, a lot of different factors tend to contribute to the outcome, from the current state of the economy to the way you handled organizing the company picnic last week. When speaking with your boss about the possibility of a raise, keep proper etiquette in mind.

Instructions

1. Learn how your company typically manages pay raises. Every company handles things differently. For example, your company may closely assess the annual job performances of its employees every December, which could mean that pay raises take place soon after, in January. Knowing your company's policies may prevent yourself from wasting time and asking when it simply isn't appropriate.

2. Understand your position's value. Before you ask your boss for a raise, develop a strong knowledge of your position and its value on the market. One way in which to do this is by networking with people who have similar job titles in your field, especially if they work for different companies. If you work as a marketing assistant, compare notes on standard salaries with other people employed in marketing.

3. Request a meeting with your boss. Once you are prepared to have the discussion with your boss, ask if you can have a private meeting. Then, honestly and clearly indicate your purpose for the meeting. State that you believe you should be considered for a pay hike due to your many skills and recent achievements. Provide specific and detailed examples of your recent accomplishments. For example, if just you secured an exclusive client for your company, mention that.

4. Inform your boss of the exact raise you want. Do not be too intimidated to state an exact amount. To strengthen the validity of your request, be sure to have information about market rates on hand.

5. Inquire about future action. In the event that your boss declines your request for a raise, ask her if it may be a possibility in the future. Ask her if there is anything you could do to increase your possibility of a raise.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan in advance. Well before you plan to make your request, start cultivating your skill sets so that you appear more attractive and indispensable as an employee. For example, learn the ins and outs of cutting-edge and innovative computer programs. Go out of your way at work so that your boss notices you -- in a positive way. Regardless of whether you get a raise or not, it is always smart to do your best and go the extra mile at your job.

• Keep fellow employees out of it. If you heard through the grapevine that someone in the office got a pay raise, avoid mentioning it to your boss, as it is a private matter.

• If you suspect that your company isn't doing very well financially as of late, save your request for a later date when things seem more stable.

References

• Reader's Digest Version: How to Ask for a Raise
• Monster; Ask for the Raise You Want; Therese Droste
• Harvard Business Review; How to Get the Pay Raise You Want; Gill Corkindale; April 2010
• Bank of America: How to Ask for a Pay Raise