How to Ask For a Raise

All of us work for a salary. Though money is not the only consideration for a job, it is definitely one of the most important ones. It serves as a measure of recognition and appreciation by the company. Many-a-times, employees feel that they are underpaid, whether in comparison to the hard work they undertake or as compared to the salary received by others in the same capacity. If you are one of them, then asking for a raise from your boss seems to be the best possible option. In case you need any help regarding the same, go through the following lines and know the best way to ask your boss for a pay raise.

How to Ask For a Raise

First of all, you need to determine whether you really deserve a raise. In order to convince your boss that you are worthy of a hike in salary, you need to be sure of it yourself.
Get in touch with other people in a similar job and similar industry and know how much are they earning. This will give you an idea of the trends prevailing in your field. You can also make use of salary surveys or get information from a professional association, if you are a member. If you are earning less than the average salary, you have a strong case in point. If not, you will need to justify why you deserve more than others.
Next, you will have to gain information about the financial health of your employer. Rather than relying on the unofficial grapevine, it is better to undertake some research. The possibility of a raise as well as the extent of raise depends upon the finances of the company.
Keeping all the above points in mind, prepare your case. List all your accomplishments in the company, since your last raise or since the time you joined (whichever was later). Note down any addition in your duties and responsibilities, any special projects you have handled, and so on.
Decide on your course of action, in case you do not get a raise or get less than what you expected. Will you leave your job or work harder and ask for a raise at a later date? The first scenario will be appropriate if you feel that you boss is not recognizing your performance. The latter, on the other hand, will be better if you think that his arguments are valid.
When asking for a raise, you need to show your boss that you are serious about the whole affair. For the purpose, treat it as a business meeting and fix an appointment with your boss. Discussing via email, in the cafeteria, on telephone is not a viable option,
Finally, present your case confidently to your boss. Be assertive, but don't come across as adamant and stubborn. Be positive in your approach. Instead of listing other employee's faults, put across your qualities and hard work. Who knows, your boss might agree to a raise immediately!

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