How to ask for a raise? The hesitation to request a raise, even when warranted, is often due to underlying anxiety. This apprehension may arise from feeling it’s too big a request or unreasonable, especially when self-doubt overshadows evident achievements. There’s also the fear of facing rejection or potential resentment from superiors.
According to Payscale, only 37% of employees have approached their superiors about a salary increment. But here’s where it gets interesting: out of those who took the initiative, 70% were successful in their request. The takeaway from these data is that taking the initiative can markedly shift outcomes; hence, the pivotal move begins with adjusting your perspective.
Requesting A Raise Is Perfectly Standard
Get used to the idea that asking for a raise is common professional practice and an essential part of career development. In most organizations, discussing compensation openly and transparently with your supervisor or manager is acceptable and expected. Given their regular encounters with such discussions, the subject is likely more routine to them than it is to you.
Don’t Assume Your Manager Will React Negatively
Overthinking is another blocker to asking for a raise. Thoughts like, “She might assume I’m only in it for the money” or “I might come off as arrogant for requesting more” might cross your mind. While the objective is to reflect the value you bring, it’s also about ensuring your earnings align with ever-increasing daily expenses.
Moreover, career advancement naturally entails receiving compensation acknowledging your dedication and expertise. You’ve earned it, and it’s absolutely valid to voice it. Even if the raise isn’t approved, it’s unlikely to harm your professional relationship. Simply broaching the topic of compensation won’t make you less esteemed in your manager’s eyes.
Understand The True Significance of a Raise For You
Think of a pay raise as recognizing your augmented input since your previous salary review. It indicates your recognition of your worth and contribution. You’re not asking for special treatment or expecting a handout. Ideally, businesses should offer remuneration that aligns with the prevailing market rate for your expertise to retain your skills in-house. If they fall short, it’s only natural for you to contemplate roles where your value is truly acknowledged. In fact, by communicating your desire for a pay adjustment, you’re extending a courtesy to the organization, offering them a chance to retain valuable talent.
The Right Moment To Request A Raise
A good-timed request significantly influences the outcome. To enhance the likelihood of success, strategically choose a moment when there are minimal barriers to approval. Here are several factors to consider before posing your request:
Recognizing Your Worth For A Raise
One of the primary indicators that it might be time to ask for a raise is when you consistently exceed expectations in your role. If you’ve constantly gone above and beyond, it’s a sign that you’re contributing more than expected. Perhaps your proactive actions have secured a retainer client, or maybe you’ve played a pivotal role in a high-impact project.
When your contributions get positive feedback from colleagues, superiors, or clients, it’s an acknowledgment of your value to the company. Such instances boost your confidence and are good case studies to present when asking for a raise.
Evaluating Your Current Compensation
Another factor to consider is the duration you’ve been in your current role without a pay review. If you’ve been in the same position for a significant time, such as a year or more, and your salary hasn’t been revisited, it might be time to broach the subject. If research indicates that your pay is below the market rate, given your role, experience, and location, it strengthens your case.
Furthermore, if your responsibilities have grown and diversified from your original job description without a corresponding pay increase, it’s a valid reason to request a salary review. Acquiring new skills or qualifications that enhance your role also provides a solid basis for a pay raise.
Assessing The Company’s Financial Health
While individual achievements and market rates are crucial, it’s equally important to consider the financial health of your organization. If the company is not profitable or is taking cost-cutting measures, it might not be the best time to ask for a raise, regardless of personal accomplishments. On the other hand, if the company is thriving and showing positive financial growth, it might be more open to salary negotiations.
Timing Is Everything
It’s always best to approach such discussions during off-peak times when managers aren’t swamped with work. Avoid hectic periods for the company, such as the end of a fiscal quarter or during major project deadlines. Choosing a moment when your superiors can give you their full attention can make all the difference in the outcome of your request.
If they are under pressure, your request may serve as an additional stressor, potentially hindering their ability to evaluate the situation objectively or diminishing their willingness to respond nicely due to an irritable mood.
Ideally, approach them with your request when they appear to be in a relaxed and positive state and are not preoccupied, to increase the likelihood of a favorable and thoughtful response. Your first interaction with them should notify them that there’s a topic you wish to address. You can then inquire about a suitable time for them, ensuring you have ample opportunity to prepare yourself for the discussion.
What You Can Do Before The Meeting
It would help if you were ready to articulate how your contributions have positively impacted the company. Gaining clarity builds your confidence. You’ll need to practice your points to guarantee precision and poise during the actual discussion.
Determine the exact amount you wish to request as a raise. Industry benchmarks can vary by wide margins, but there’s usually a general average that should guide your decision. Take into account specific factors such as your geographical location, the current rate of inflation, and what the company can feasibly offer based on its financial performance and profit margins.
While annual raises for U.S. employees average around 3%, sadly, this doesn’t always keep pace with inflation, making it a less-than-ideal reference point. Nevertheless, you might consider asking for a substantial increase based on your reasons for seeking an increase, the duration since your last raise, and your achievements. Avoid the risk of lowballing yourself. Asking for a raise from 10% to 20% is entirely reasonable. Considering there may be room for negotiation, this range gives you the flexibility to ensure a mutually agreeable and fair increase is settled upon.
How To Ask For a Raise
Many people wonder how to ask for a raise the correct way. Initiating the conversation is never easy, yet framing it positively can be a facilitative strategy. A smooth way to start is by showing appreciation for your position and the chances you’ve been given in the company.
This onset serves as a springboard to spotlight key achievements and how your responsibilities and expertise have evolved. Highlight the tangible benefits your contributions have brought to the organization.
Assure your supervisor of your unwavering commitment and your continued intent to push for the company’s success. At this point, clearly state your request for a raise and resist the urge to go on and on or overly elaborate. Here’s a simple way to frame your request clearly:
“I would appreciate consideration for the potential for a salary adjustment. Given the extra duties I’ve taken on and my notable contributions (tweak this part to the reasons you deserve a raise), I’ve done some research and found that a salary of (desired amount) is in line with what’s typically offered in our industry for my current role and takes into account my achievements at the company.”
After The Conversation
While it’s uncertain how your boss will react, be ready for potential counterpoints. Address any reservations or queries they might have, always keeping a constructive and receptive stance. When you ask for a raise, you usually don’t get an answer right away. Different situations might arise.
If Your Boss Needs Time
Expect that your boss will likely need some time to mull over your request and possibly discuss it with other key decision-makers in the company. It’s not only common but anticipated that they won’t provide a yes-or-no answer on the spot. Here, you need to express understanding and patience. Ensure to professionally request a timeframe by which you might expect a decision, ensuring that you’re not left in anticipation for too long.
Preparing for a Negative Outcome
Anticipating a potential denial is not being negative. A denial is a realistic scenario, and prepping for it is equally vital. The rejection may not always be about your performance; it could be due to budgetary constraints or other internal factors you are unaware of. Should this occur, maintain a composed demeanor and inquire about the steps and improvements you might undertake to fortify your case for a raise in the future. A constructive boss will provide feedback, outlining areas for improvement and establishing a roadmap towards eventual compensation enhancement.
Beyond The Scope Of A Raise
Even if you get a no, considering alternative company perks can be a savvy and mutually beneficial approach to negotiation. Explore options such as adopting flexible work hours, establishing a bonus structure, receiving transportation assistance, or acquiring additional vacation days. Interestingly, employers often find facilitating these non-monetary benefits more feasible and are generally more amenable to granting them.
Handling Dissatisfaction
Still, should you find the reasons for denial or the proposed pathway to a future unsatisfactory, a period of introspection about your career trajectory and association with the company becomes necessary. Evaluate your standing, growth prospects, and whether the organizational culture and recognition align with you. It might be time to look elsewhere.
Conversely, if your request is approved, the need for professionalism and decorum magnifies. Express gratitude and ensure the approval does not derail your dedication and work ethic. Don’t be too eager to discuss your successful raise with co-workers to sidestep potential friction within the team.