How to Negotiate for a Promotion

Dress professionally when going into a yearly evaluation.

Raises and promotions are common among businesses that reward good performance. In most cases, employees are evaluated three months after being hired and then annually after that point. When trying for a promotion, it's best to anticipate these reviews weeks before they're due. Employers expect their employees to improve skills, work ethic and attendance in comparison to the last review. The bigger the improvements, the more likely that an employee will get promoted. In preparation for your yearly review, keep in mind a few things when asking for a promotion.

Instructions

1. Ask your employer if it's possible to schedule a meeting to review your past year's work. Once a date and time is set, get organized.

2. Collect emails, past reviews and other correspondence from your employer to share during your review. Along with these documents, have an updated resume ready as well. You might have acquired a new skill since your last review of which your employer isn't aware.

3. Have a goal in mind before going into the review. What are you looking to get out of your meeting? Is there a position open that you're hoping to fill? How well do you qualify for that position? If you're looking for a raise, explain why you might deserve it. Saying "I work hard" isn't enough. Review the past year for the improvements you've made. What have you done for the company that you feel should be recognized?

4. Keep eye contact and dress professionally during your meeting. Even if you work at a laid-back job, treat this review as if it were your first interview. Present yourself with a smile and firm handshake. Then, move to your notes and personal achievements from the past year. Answer questions truthfully. Should your employer not offer a promotion or raise at that time, ask how you can improve so your next review is more profitable. Use feedback to improve your work so during the next review you can talk about that as well.

Tips & Warnings

• When looking to fill a new position, telling your employer you're interested shows initiative. Employers usually won't know you're ready to take on more work unless you tell them.

References

• Job Promotions: Seeking A Job Promotion The Correct Way