How to Ask Your Boss for a Raise

Many of us feel we don't earn quite as much money as we should and most people could certainly use a raise. Asking for a raise may feel awkward and uncomfortable, though. What if the boss says no? However, you won't know if you don't ask. Act confident and secure and prepare in advance for the discussion with your boss to maximize your chances of getting the raise you deserve.

Step One

Do some research to find out what you're worth. You can use websites like Payscale.com or Indeed.com to learn the average salary nationwide for your position. You can also contact recruiters and ask about the typical salary for your job.

Step Two

Make a list of ways you've contributed to your company in recent months. Make your list as specific as possible and when you can, include information about how much money you've brought into the company. For instance, don't just put down that you were the top salesperson last quarter. Include the exact amount of money you brought into the company through sales you made if you can calculate that figure.

Step Three

Schedule a meeting with your boss. Try to choose a time that is convenient for both of you and when you are not likely to be interrupted or distracted.

Step Four

Tell your boss you'd like to discuss your value to the company. Explain that you've done some research and that, based on your recent contributions to the company, you feel your position is worth the average salary for your position. If you already make the average salary for your position but feel you deserve more, tell your boss that in light of your contributions, you feel you deserve a better than average salary. Don't say that your boss doesn't pay you enough; simply say you feel your contributions are worth more.

Step Five

Present your boss with the research you did, including printouts of any information from websites about the average salary for your position.

Step Six

Give your boss time to think about it, if needed. If your boss says you cannot have a raise right now, ask what you can do in the next six months to increase your chances of getting a raise in the future.

Warnings

Don't threaten to quit unless you get a raise. Even if you really will quit if you don't get a raise, threats will not likely encourage your boss to reward you with a raise. Never threaten to quit if you don't really mean it; your boss might just accept your resignation on the spot!

Sources:

Forbes. http://www.forbes.com/2008/04/29/raise-downturn-interview-lead-careers-cx_tw_0429bizbasics.html . How to Ask for a Raise When Times Are Hard.