One of the most challenging things for employees to do is ask for a raise. In fact, more than 50 percent of people have gone their entire career without asking for a pay raise. It is hard to believe, but the underlying reason for many of these people is simply that they don’t feel comfortable or appropriate doing so.
However, knowing the right way and time to ask for a raise is a crucial skill to have in your career. Make the task easier by preparing as much as possible beforehand. If you have exceeded expectations, made good impressions, and proved that you are capable of completing your work on time, then you should be able to talk about these instances and back it up with numbers if possible. The best way to shake your jitters is to go in confident and well-prepared.
No matter if you are content with your current position and salary, it is beneficial for your career growth to consistently show the value that you bring. By displaying that you have a willingness to improve every day your bosses and managers will recognize that you are serious about your work. You will also gain a better understanding of yourself and your career goals when you have the ability to continually analyze your performance.
Before you ask for a raise, here are some things you should have in mind:
1. Set realistic expectations. Chances are that you may not get the amount you are asking for, at least not right off the bat.
2. Be well prepared as your manager may try to shake you down. So, be prepared to justify your request extensively.
3. Be specific with your requests. Do not beat around the bush or except them to understand what you are implying.
4. While going straight to the point is key, it is also important to handle it with tact. Express gratitude for the avenue the company has provided you and be graceful through it.
5. Last but not least, be confident. The importance of approaching this awkward conversation with self-assurance can not be overstated. Know your worth and let it radiate all through the discussion and your professional life in general.
Keep in mind that it isn’t just your work in the company, but outside as well that can play into your value. Employers love to see is that you not only want to grow with the company but also in the industry. Staying up to date with trends and new discoveries or tools being used to optimize performance is an integral part of any business that wants to keep moving forward. Bosses and managers will notice if you can keep up without having to be asked.
For more tips on how exactly to prove yourself, take a look at this helpful infographic by Turbo
Leave a Comment