If you’ve been working hard, delivering on your job responsibilities, and performing at a high level, it’s time to consider asking for a raise. However, framing your request correctly is essential to avoid being viewed as arrogant or naive.
Before you initiate a discussion with your boss about salary, research market values and pay stubs online, if you feel underpaid, use your research to find a number or percentage that makes sense for you.
You’re Feeling Underpaid
You may feel underpaid because your pay needs to meet your job’s demands. This can result from your industry or company struggling to make ends meet, or it can be due to changes in your job duties.
If you’re regularly taking on new responsibilities or have been promoted but have yet to receive a raise, it’s time to ask for one.
You’ll want to use a tool salary calculator to see how much you should be paid for your skillset and experience. It’ll also let you compare your current salary to others in your industry and job field.
You’re Taking on More Responsibilities
A recent SEEK survey revealed that nearly nine in ten people had been asked to take on more career responsibilities without getting a pay rise. But don’t be put off by the lack of monetary reward; if you approach the situation with a bit of a game plan, you might be in for a treat.
The best way to make your case for extra work is to show how you will improve the company’s bottom line by delivering on your new responsibilities. This can be achieved through several tactics, from outsourced ad hoc projects to streamlining internal processes. And remember to be clear on what you want from your new responsibilities and the company’s goals for the new role before putting pen to paper.
You’re Getting Positive Feedback
If you’re getting positive feedback from your boss or coworkers, ask for a raise. A raise can be a great way to show your manager that you value their input and are a valuable team member.
But before you go in and make your request, it’s essential to evaluate whether the company is in a position to grant your request. For example, if the company just went through a layoff or a big budget cut, it might be best to wait until things improve before giving you extra money.
It may be a good idea to research how much other roles with the same responsibilities are paying in the area. This will give you a target number to aim for when you ask for your raise.
You’re Getting Recruiter Interest
Many recruiters will contact you to understand your skills and experience, even if they still want to hire you. It’s an opportunity to show your boss that you are a valuable employee with the potential to add value to the company, so make sure you take advantage of it.
The best way to do this is to put together a “brag sheet” or something similar that highlights your top accomplishments and what you have been up to lately. Then use that information to present your case and wait for the right time to ask for a raise .
You’re Taking on New Responsibilities
Taking on new responsibilities is a great way to build your resume and show potential employers that you’re ready for more commitment. However, ensure that the new duties are separate from your current job description or goals in your career.
If the new responsibilities are not adding value, decline them. Alternatively, ask your boss to clarify your job duties so that you can understand them.
It’s not a good idea to say yes to responsibilities you must prepare for because they can derail your work ethic and relationships outside the workplace. In addition, it’s essential to set boundaries for yourself concerning how much you can take on in a given period.