How to Get a Work Raise
Talking to your boss about money and salary can be one of the most difficult things you may ever have to do. Follow these easy steps to grease the corporate wheels and ensure yourself success....and a bigger paycheck.
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Instructions
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How to Get a Work Raise
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1
Get organized and gather documentation. Compile all prior evaluations you've received, as well as documentation regarding big projects completed, extreme praise given and by whom. All of this information will eventually help you impress your boss with your performance record, justifying your request for an increase in salary. Remember, everyone reports to someone, including your boss. He or she needs to be able to go to his or her superior and explain their decision, so make it easy for them - provide the documentation.
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2
Compose an Excel spreadsheet that lays out your salary history with your company. Make sure there is a timeline if doing so would highlight just how long you've been working for the same salary.
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3
Ask your boss for a meeting. Tell him you were hoping to discuss your salary, but make sure you have total privacy. Discretion is key in these situations. No boss wants to have a pay negotiation wildfire on their hands, so the more open and indiscreet you are about your goals, the more likely you are to get shut down.
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4
At the meeting with your boss, lay it all out. Present the documentation you've previously compiled in an organized fashion: start with your record of performance, then squeeze in the actual numbers - specifying exactly what new number you think is appropriate, and if you're feeling like you have the finesse or the need to do so, mention all the reasons that you love your job and the conditions in your life that would make it very difficult for you to stay if you didn't get this raise. This has to be somewhat subtle and tactful, but essentially what you're conveying with this is the following: You need me and I need more money or I'll take my talent elsewhere.
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5
Plan a celebration! If you followed these steps, you should be getting a raise.
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Tips & Warnings
Speak your particular boss' language - if he's a numbers guy, focus your pitch on that; if he's sentimental, perhaps mention some of the relationships you've built with other members of the company.
Never ever sound whiny or desperate. You want to be grateful for the experience obtained and not so haughty that your boss decides you are bad for the work environment and morale.
