6. The Do s


6. The Do’s

Asking for a raise is frightening for us if we define ourselves by our salaries. In fact, your salary is a reflection of how your company values the services you provide to it, not a reflection of you. Getting a raise is an objective business decision, so approach it as such.

Summarize what you did, how you did it, and the benefits that resulted for your employer. Add comments on your goals and plans for next year.

If you are worried about being off base in your request, you might start with a question such as

“I’m interested in asking for a raise. How would you do that if you were me?”

“I’d like to talk to you about my performance and salary. Can I have an hour of your time this week?”

Once you have opened the conversation, you could continue with

“I saved the company $50,000 by streamlining the service delivery process. Since I created and implemented a process that allows our clients to get information on their orders before speaking to their client representative, our service rating has increased to 100 percent for 8 months running. I’ve also exceeded targets on sales and managed to a tight budget consistently.

“I think my results put me in line for an increase of 6 percent—this fits within the company’s guidelines, and it would bring me to the salary level that others in similar positions are making these days.”

Be prepared for your boss to say that he or she will “think about it,” which may be code for “I’ll have to check my budget and with HR.” Do not beg, grovel, or threaten—and never say, “I need the money.” The focus must be on the raise you deserve, not the raise you need. Close with a “thank you,” whether you get the raise on the spot or not.




How to Shine at Work
How to Shine at Work
ISBN: 0071408657
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2006
Pages: 132

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