Be Prepared: Talking To Your Boss About A Raise

One of the biggest mistakes people make when approaching their boss for a raise is being unprepared for the conversation. Everyone thinks they are worth more money, but not everyone is able to convince their employer that they deserve it. Present your case in the best light by following these tips to prepare to talk to your boss about a raise.

First, research how much your colleagues are making. Contact professional organizations in your company's field or consult Internet sites that report salary survey results. Knowing the standard income for your field and location can tell you if you are on par with other professionals.

Second, consider the financial health of your company. Asking for a raise during a downturn or slow quarter can be disastrous. Follow business news and browse financial reports to get a gauge on your company's recent performance.

After completing your research, carefully craft your argument. Focus on your experience, qualifications and accomplishments. Prove to your employer that you are an essential asset to the company and deserve to be compensated as such. Make a chronological list of your achievements, beginning with the most recent and working backwards. Also make a bulleted list of your most impressive skills and special talents.

Be prepared for your request to be met with a negative response. While you should remain positive, you must also be realistic. Carefully consider what you will do if your boss denies your request or offers you a much smaller increase than you had hoped for. Each person's game plan will be different at this point. Some may go so far as to quit their jobs while others may plan to revisit the subject at a later date.

If your boss does deny your request, do not be afraid to ask why. If your performance was an issue, ask for ways to improve in the future. If the company's financial state was to blame, plan on revisiting the subject in the future. This conversation can be a great opportunity to gain constructive criticism and helpful feedback.

Lastly, present your case with confidence. Ask to speak with your boss in person and treat the occasion as a business meeting. Showing you are serious about the subject will only help your case.

About the Author:
Miranda Davis is a writer who enjoys writing on a number of different verticals. For more on raises, Common Sense at Work offers readers information on how to ask for a raise.

Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com

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