How to Ask for a Raise and Get It!

Asking for a raise from your boss can be very hard to do and can be intimidating. You may feel like you may jeopardize your job by asking for a raise. This article will give you ideas and specific ways you can ask for a raise and feel confident doing it.

With the economy as it is we are all just thankful we have a job much less ask for a raise, but it doesn't have to be that way. If you deserve a raise there is no reason why you shouldn't ask for it. Women may find it harder than men to ask for a raise especially when the boss is a man. You can feel confident and sure when you approach your boss. Remember, your boss puts his pants on one leg at a time just like you do.

One simple tip: ask! A lot of times we worry and fret so much about a raise that sometimes all it takes is just cut to the chase and ask! Don't analyze or play the "what if' game, so go in and do it. Now, if that idea don't work for you, read on!

One thing I advise against doing is giving an ultimatum when asking for a raise. You are not totally indispensable and if you threaten to leave you may find them leading you to the door and opening it for you. So, avoid the ultimatum.

Be positive and praise your boss. This doesn't mean kissing up to them, it simply means letting them know how much you enjoy them as your boss and working for them. A good compliment never hurt anyone.

Be prepared. If they ask you why you deserve a raise be prepared to tell them. Have you increased the company's revenue? Brought in a lot of new clients or customers? Be specific in ways you have benefited the company and how you are an asset to it.

Don't go in thinking of a specific dollar amount and with the attitude that you will take no less. You need to be realistic and realize that your "dream" raise may not be a realistic one. You may have to be willing to compromise. A small raise is better than no raise.

Prepare yourself if the answer is no. Find out why and what does your boss thinks needs to be done or what you can do to achieve that raise. Be confident and let that confident show your boss that you are serious and will do whatever it takes to improve to get the raise you want. Don't just take no for an answer and walk out the door. I would even set a time table when you can both discuss your raise again.

Last, but not least, be gracious. Your character, loyalty and attitude will take you a long way and getting what you want out of your job. Your boss wants someone they can depend on and you can show them you are that person.