Do you feel like you work harder than what you get paid for? Do you want to ask for a raise, but you’re not sure how to do it? Have you asked for one, and didn’t get it? In the 2020 economy, companies certainly aren’t handing out money, but career experts say that despite all the penny-pinching, a raise is never out of question. It doesn’t hurt to ask!

Decide What You’re Really Worth

Start by doing some research on what other people are getting paid in your position. Once you do this you can find factual resources to support your case. Websites like Getraised.com, Payscale.com, or Glassdoor.com are a few good examples of some resources to determine if you are truly underpaid. Once you’ve determined that, present a set number to your boss, not a range or scale, but an exact number.

Schedule a Meeting

This is not one of those instances that you stick your head into your boss’s office with a, “Hey, you got a minute?” Start with an email requesting a set time with them.

Rehearse What You Want to Say

Asking for a raise isn’t easy, we know that. It’s an uncomfortable topic, and it can be quite awkward to talk about. If you know exactly how you want to execute your request, it will become a little easier. Start with a list on paper, think of 3 good reasons that you should receive a raise, and then form a statement. Start with a positive note like, “I really enjoy working here and I am grateful for all of the opportunities I’ve received within this job.” Then, lead into something like, “I have been recently taking on more responsibilities, and I have been fulfilling those responsibilities in a timely and well executed manner.” Practice with a friend, or better yet, a coworker, who is familiar with the boss.

Don’t:

  • Threaten to quit if you don’t get a raise.

  • Use another opportunity to get what you want, like an interview or another offer.

  • Bring up personal issues, you don’t want a raise out of pity, you want one out of merit.

  • Do anything to cause mistrust from your boss.

Let Them Speak

After you say what you have prepared to say, pause, and listen to what they have to say. Maybe they’ll say no, that doesn’t mean you should give up, and/or quit or immediately start applying to other places. The best thing to do is tell them to think about it and be patient, don’t demand an answer right away. Let this decision be their idea.

If They Say No:

  • Remember what you’re worth.

  • Keep working hard.

  • Work for yourself, and work hard.

  • Keep your head up and try again next quarter.

 

At TPI Staffing Service, Inc. we don’t decide what our clients will pay, but we encourage all of our employees to know their worth. When we find someone a job, we tell them to put their best foot forward, beginning to end, and we support them a long the way.

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