Here is how to do a raise, based on key preparation steps.
Asking for a raise requires careful preparation and strategic communication to demonstrate your value and secure the compensation you deserve.
Successfully requesting a salary increase involves several critical steps, focusing on proving your worth, preparing your pitch, and managing the negotiation process.
1. Benchmark Your Salary
Before asking for a raise, it's essential to understand your market value. Researching what others in similar roles, industries, and locations are earning provides a solid foundation for your request.
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How to Benchmark:
- Use reputable online salary comparison websites (e.g., Glassdoor, Payscale, LinkedIn Salary).
- Network with peers in your industry to gather insights.
- Consider your experience level, specific skills, and qualifications.
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Example Table: Salary Benchmark
| Role | Location | Experience Level | Typical Salary Range | Your Current Salary | Target Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| [Your Role] | [Your City/Region] | [Your Level] | $[X] - $[Y] | $[Current] | $[Target] |
Knowing the market rate helps you make a reasonable and data-backed request.
2. Quantify Your Achievements
Your request should be based on tangible results and contributions you've made to the company, not just the time you've spent there or your personal expenses. Focus on accomplishments that had a positive impact.
- Examples of Quantifiable Achievements:
- Increased sales revenue by X%.
- Reduced operational costs by Y%.
- Improved project efficiency, saving Z hours/money.
- Successfully managed key projects under budget or ahead of schedule.
- Implemented a new process that improved customer satisfaction scores by W%.
- Received positive feedback or awards recognizing specific contributions.
Keep a running list of your accomplishments throughout the year, detailing the impact they had.
3. Prepare for a Discussion
Don't ask for a raise on the fly. Schedule a dedicated meeting with your manager. This shows professionalism and ensures you both have time to discuss the matter properly.
- Preparation Checklist:
- Gather all your data: benchmark research, list of achievements, and any positive performance reviews or feedback.
- Structure your talking points logically.
- Anticipate questions your manager might ask about your contributions, market data, or future goals.
4. Practice How to Ask for a Raise
Rehearsing your pitch helps you feel more confident and ensures you cover all your key points smoothly.
- Practice Tips:
- Practice saying your key points out loud.
- Role-play the conversation with a friend or mentor.
- Time yourself to ensure your request is concise.
5. Use Strong Language
When making your request, be direct and confident. Avoid hesitant or apologetic language. Frame your request based on your demonstrated value and market worth.
- Instead of: "I was wondering if maybe I could get a little raise?"
- Use: "Based on my contributions to [specific achievements] and my research into market rates for my role, I am requesting a salary increase to $[Target Salary]."
Clearly state the specific salary or salary range you are seeking.
6. Have a Fallback Position
Be prepared for the possibility that your immediate request might not be met entirely. Think about alternative outcomes you would be willing to discuss.
- Possible Fallback Options:
- Agreeing on a clear timeline for a future salary review (e.g., in 3-6 months), with specific goals attached.
- Discussing non-monetary compensation or benefits (e.g., additional vacation days, professional development opportunities, flexible work arrangements).
This shows flexibility while still advancing your career and compensation goals.
7. Position Yourself for a Future Raise
Even if you don't get the exact raise you want immediately, use the conversation to understand what you need to do to earn a raise in the future.
- Discuss:
- Specific performance goals or metrics that would warrant a raise.
- Opportunities for growth or taking on more responsibility.
- A timeline for revisiting the compensation discussion.
This turns a potentially disappointing outcome into a roadmap for future success.
