BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Ask for a Raise

By eHow Careers & Work Editor

Rate: (65 Ratings)

Before you ask for a raise, consider whether you merit a raise and whether your company is in a position to give you one. If so, then choose your moment and your methods to ask for a raise very carefully.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Step1

Evaluate your worth. Make a list of your accomplishments, skills and contributions.

Step2

Arm yourself with information. Know what a normal raise is for someone of your experience and occupation.

Step3

Assess your supervisor's mood and outlook. Is he or she ready to consider your request?

Step4

Choose an appropriate time of day. Make an appointment or ask if there are a few minutes to spare. Plan for an end-of-business-day meeting.

Step5

Consider asking for a specific amount that's a little higher than what you want. Say 8 percent when you would be happy with 6 percent.

Step6

Be realistic. If your company is going through tough times but you still feel deserving, decide how you'll respond if a lower amount is offered.

Step7

Be flexible. Would you consider a supplement in perks, time off, flextime or vacation time in lieu of a raise? Negotiate.

Step8

If your supervisor turns you down, have a plan ready and regroup.

Tips & Warnings

If you can, print out an outline showing that you're paid less than others in your position according to industry statistics ' but are producing more and better results.
Avoid losing your temper or your sense of humor.

Who Can Help:

Comments

lindamvaitkus said

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on 12/6/2007 It is a good idea to leverage your request for a raise with some simultaneous job search. Every time I had a job offer in hand when I requested a raise, I got it 100% That is a 15% raise. If I did not get a favorable response, I stepped up my search. This helps promote your self esteem.

bmi57 said

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on 12/5/2007 The squeeky wheel gets the grease, talk with your boss. Sometimes they are so busy they can tend to forget who's doing what for them.

MidniteWriter said

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on 12/4/2007 This is very good. I don't know if I like #7 altogether because it may make them feel like you are ganging up on them? Not really sure. Otherwise the steps make sense.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Sandwich your request for a raise between praise of your position or the company. Tell your boss how much you enjoy working for the company. At the end of your conversation, ask for your raise. Be sure to give the company another compliment after you ask for the raise.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 If you also want a promotion, don't work too hard on one area or else they will keep you there forever because that's your strength. (And you won't get the raise either.)