The best time to ask for a raise is just after a stellar performance review because your boss will be anticipating it. If you’ve just been promoted or received new responsibilities that are typically associated with a higher-level position, it’s always appropriate to broach the subject of a salary increase even in a difficult market.
But how do you ask for a raise? Here are some of my top tips:
- Before the meeting takes place, role-play it with a friend so that you can practice a tone that sounds friendly and assertive rather than bitter and entitled.
- If you can, try for an informal setting like coffee.
- Once you sit down with your manager, start positively. You might, for example, say something like: âI’ve gotten so much out of working here and really appreciate you mentorship and the opportunities you’ve given me.â
- Then, ask if she’ll consider a salary increase in light of your recent performance. You might lead off with: âNow that I’ve been doing the work of a senior account manager for almost a year, can we consider an increase in compensation to reflect these new responsibilities?â
- As clearly and concisely as possible, go over the highlights with some concrete examples. Focus on the benefits your boss and the company receive from your contributions rather than the additional money you need or desire.
For example, you should say something like: âBecause I can do the job of both an account manager and a programmer, I’m saving the company an additional salaryâ rather than: âI need to be making more income to pay for my wedding next year.â And don’t bring co-workers into the discussion by saying: âWell, Peter Gibbons has only been working here a few months and I know he’s making way more than me.â
If y