You work hard and smart. You put your nose to the grindstone, and receive showers of praise. Don’t you think your salary should match that?
We get it, asking for a raise can seem intimidating. But you shouldn’t let asking for a raise intimidate you; it should empower you! Standing up and getting your true worth, both financially and professionally, is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
Here are some surefire ways to get the raise you deserve:
Realize you can get it!
In a recent Glamour survey, they found only 43 percent of women surveyed had asked for a raise over the course of their careers — but out of those 43 percent, a whopping 75 percent received raises when they asked.
Remember, if you’re working hard, the discussion to get the raise you deserve is something an employer will expect – if you ask for a salary bump the right way, the worst an employer can do is put the discussion on the table for a later time.
Make a roadmap
Employers want someone who is in it for more than the money, and you want the professional challenges and to get the raise you deserve.
That’s why you shouldn’t just ask for a raise; you should make a career road map. If you aim higher than just money by talking about what you both see in your future for the organization, it’s a win-win for both of you.
Liz Ryan, CEO and Founder of Human Workplace, says, “That gives your manager a chance to think about the projects and priorities you’re describing, along with the pay changes that you hope to see coming through as you hit the milestones you’ve set for yourself.”
Start by talking about some new challenges you’d like to take on. Then ask some questions about how your career (and money) can skyrocket: How do you see your role changing in the next year? What additional projects do you want to take on?
Numbers are your new best friend
Have a girls’ night out with numbers – anything great you’ve done should absolutely be measured in facts and figures.
Zappos.com HR director Hollie Delaney recommends, “Say: ‘I’d like to talk about the ways my job has changed. I was hired in [month, year] and my responsibilities were [list of tasks]. Over the past [period], I’ve gotten great feedback, and you’ve added [new responsibilities]. I’ve looked at what similar positions pay and found salaries in this ballpark. I’d like to discuss getting my pay closer to that.”
Research everything and anything you can before popping the question , including putting your own accomplishments into concrete figures. There’s a vast sea of information available online on what similar roles are getting paid, and what the salary range is for your industry and area.
Bring up how awesome you are
Your boss is beyond busy, and he or she probably isn’t aware of half the things you do. Even if it seems repetitive, you shouldn’t be afraid to discuss everything you’re bringing to the table.
Susan Adams of Forbes gave a great example: “If you’re in the elevator with a senior manager and they ask you how you are, say things are great and you got the latest project in on time. Convey that you’re a team player by praising your boss.”
Remember, don’t be timid; be proud of that new project you spearheaded!
Get some tips from The Tribe
Reach out to the LTH Tribe to get even more tips to get the raise you deserve. If you’ve gotten that raise already, dish out some tips that helped you!
