Regardless of how long a person has had a particular job or how hard they work, it is always a bit intimidating to ask for a raise. Even if the raise is deserved, asking at the wrong time could prevent the employer from being able to offer one, especially if the company is in financial distress, or if a raise at that time is not within the company’s policy. But if the timing is right, and an employee is up for a review, that may present the opportunity to ask for a raise in wages. In that case, there are a number of short-term strategies to make the discussion a bit easier.

 

Schedule a Meeting

 

It is always a good idea to schedule a meeting with an employer rather than walking in unexpectedly with the request. This gives the employee a chance to decide what they want to say. It also ensures the employer will have the time to discuss it, rather than springing it on them when they are busy.

Know the Policies

 

As stated above, there may be policies which dictate when a raise can be given, so though an employer may be willing to offer one, they may not be allowed until a certain time in a person’s employment.

 

Always be Realistic About Salary Options

 

Just being a hard worker does not warrant a raise. It takes time to rise from the bottom rung to the top of the ladder, so don’t overestimate how much should be requested. It is a good idea to do some digging on how much others in similar positions are earning. Also, ask only for what is deserved rather than what is needed. Personal expenses are not the concern of an employer, so if making ends meet is difficult, find other ways to fix that problem.

Consider Accomplishments in the Company

 

If there have been any major accomplishments that have made a positive impact on the company, keep track of those. They can be detailed out when meeting with an employer to discuss a raise. Knowing their employee is capable of taking initiative to better the company is something a boss may not be aware of, and giving them this information is one of the best ways to get a raise, and may even determine how much of a raise is offered. The more willing a person is to take on new responsibilities and projects, the better they will look in their employer’s eyes.

Be Willing to Discuss Other Options

 

It is never a good idea to sit down with a boss and make demands or to give them an ultimatum. This may lead down a very negative road and leave an employee without a job at all. If the raise offered isn’t as high as is wanted, perhaps the employer will be willing to discuss other ways to compensate for the lesser wage increase, such as bonuses for additional work, extra paid vacation time, or benefits for education.

Look Ahead

 

Though past accomplishments are always good to highlight, it is also important to assure an employer that such willingness to take initiative will continue in the future, so they know the raise will be well worth it.

 

Let the Employer Make the First Offer

 

Even though an employee may have an amount to ask for in mind, it is best to keep it to themselves and let the employer make the first offer. The boss may surprise them with a higher amount than was considered, and even if it is lower, it is best not to instantly reject it. There is always the possibility of a negotiation, and if not, keep in mind they may only be allowed to offer that much due to company policy.

 

Always Follow Up

 

After meeting with an employer, is it important to send them a memo summarizing the details discussed in the meeting, such as the employee’s accomplishments and value to the company. This type of documentation will remind the boss of the employer’s worth and may help them to make their final decision.