Tips on how to ask for a raise? I'm nervous!
I've been working at the same company since last summer, and I'm planning to ask for a raise at my upcoming yearly review. This is the first "real" job I've ever had, and I'm not totally sure how to go about asking for more money. Any tips on what to say, how much to push (if at all), whether to go in with a specific amount in mind, etc. would be most appreciated!
Document your job description, things that you've done beyond your job description, and your accomplishments. Then, look at other jobs that are similar within your area, within your industry and field, compare your salary to those, and write that down as well. Let them know that you've done the research on competitors with similar jobs and job descriptions, and have that information to share with them.
When you are having a meeting with your direct supervisor, start by saying something such as, "I just want to say thanks so much for the past year. I've noticed and I've made a note here that I have performed and outperformed all the goals that we have discussed when I started working here. Additionally, I did research on other job positions within this area, and I'm actually not being competitively paid compared to them. And as a result, I would like to ask for [X] raise. What are your thoughts?"
When you are having a meeting with your direct supervisor, start by saying something such as, "I just want to say thanks so much for the past year. I've noticed and I've made a note here that I have performed and outperformed all the goals that we have discussed when I started working here. Additionally, I did research on other job positions within this area, and I'm actually not being competitively paid compared to them. And as a result, I would like to ask for [X] raise. What are your thoughts?"
Totally agree with the above comment, esp. about comparing your salary with others in your field. I realized after working at my current position for about 6 months that others in the field were getting a lot more money than me for basically the same work. I wanted to address it, but I do like my job and my boss otherwise, so I didn't want to rock the boat or come across too pushy or snotty. I just sent her a friendly but professional email asking to meet--this is what I said (just dug through my old emails to find it, ha):
"Hi Martia (we're on first name basis here, your mileage may vary), I hope you're well! I am reaching out because I recently came upon a few job listings for positions similar to my position here with X COMPANY, but there was a marked difference in our salaries. I really enjoy my work here and would like to continue on; however, I would like to discuss a raise to a more competitive salary. I would love to meet at your convenience. Best, X."
Plan out what you want to say ahead of time, bring notes and relevant data into the meeting with you, but be friendly and confident. You can and should try to be on good terms with the people you work with, but not at the expense of your own dignity or the salary you deserve. Good luck!
"Hi Martia (we're on first name basis here, your mileage may vary), I hope you're well! I am reaching out because I recently came upon a few job listings for positions similar to my position here with X COMPANY, but there was a marked difference in our salaries. I really enjoy my work here and would like to continue on; however, I would like to discuss a raise to a more competitive salary. I would love to meet at your convenience. Best, X."
Plan out what you want to say ahead of time, bring notes and relevant data into the meeting with you, but be friendly and confident. You can and should try to be on good terms with the people you work with, but not at the expense of your own dignity or the salary you deserve. Good luck!
When you're negotiating a raise, show your supervisor that you're actively listening. You might say something like, "Hey Sean, I was really interested in getting your thoughts on how you see my career path in this company," to get the ball rolling. Then, be physically present and attentive to what they have to say. Nod your head as they're speaking and paraphrase what they're saying in an authentic and genuine way to show you understand. If you can build trust and rapport with them, it improves your ability to negotiate.
I think it helps to think of asking for a raise like another job interview (especially since negotiating salary is a part of most job interviews): you're talking yourself up, explaining why you're a valuable employee, etc., so prepare as if you're preparing for an interview. Look sharp, rehearse what you want to say, think ahead to the sorts of questions they may ask you, be confident but not cocky. Best of luck!
something my dad always told me: as a rule of thumb, when negotiating pay, if the amount you're asking for doesn't make you a little bit uncomfortable, it's not high enough. and remember that whatever you ask for they're likely to counteroffer with something lower, so always ask for more than you're really expecting or need.
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Reader Tips from How to Ask For a Pay Raise
It's not a good idea to justify asking for a pay raise by simply stating, "I need the money." It's a much better idea to prove that you deserve a pay raise, by emphasizing your value to the company. Documenting your accomplishments is a good way to do that. For example, you might include your accomplishments in a "presentation" to show your boss, a "cheat sheet" to refer to while negotiating your pay raise, or a letter asking for an appointment to discuss it.
Think twice about threatening to quit if you don't get a pay raise. It rarely works. No matter how valuable you think you are to the company, don't make the mistake of thinking that you're indispensable. Eager beavers willing to learn your job for less pay are almost always waiting in the wings. If you do quit later for lack of a raise, be careful what you say in your resignation letter so it doesn't bite you down the road.
Stay positive. Do not use this time to gripe about management, coworkers, conditions, or anything else, and do not drag other co-workers into the equation for comparison. If you must raise a concern for some reason, present it politely and come equipped with remedies and suggestions at a time different from asking for a pay raise.
Prior to asking for any raise or increase in compensation, be sure that you've handled any and all projects, jobs, and issues on your plate. Asking for a raise in the middle of something you're currently working seldom works. Remember that timing matters!
Follow the chain of command when asking for a pay raise. For example, if your immediate boss is a supervisor, don't go over your boss's head to the department manager. Instead, approach your immediate boss first and let him or her tell you the next step.
Reader Tips from 15 Tips to Negotiate a Great Salary
Don't go into too many details explaining why you need a higher salary. Giving too much information can weaken your bargaining position and it could be harder to negotiate the salary you want.
Consider saying that you have an offer from another company for a higher salary. Your original employer may increase the salary they can give you so you don't take a different offer.
Reader Tips from How to Negotiate a Higher Starting Salary
Ask the employer if they are "firm" on the number they're giving for a salary. They'll usually be honest if they can give you a higher pay.
Be sure to get the final salary offer in writing before you accept the position so details don't change.
