| FEATURE
ARTICLE
How to Ask for a Pay Raise
1. Be honest. Do
you really deserve one?
That same Salary.com survey revealed that only 19 percent of workers who
felt they were underpaid were, in fact, underpaid. If you are among that
19 percent, you'll need to provide facts and data to support your case
for a pay raise.
2. Do your homework.
The Internet makes it easy to research market pay rates for your job.
Check out www.salary.com, www.bls.gov or www.erieri.com. Professional
associations also provide salary data. Be sensitive to local market conditions.
Check the classified ads or network with others in your field.
3. Quantify the
value you provide.
Make a list of your notable accomplishments, especially those that go
beyond the duties listed in your job description. Document the revenues
generated, costs saved, increases in customer satisfaction, etc.
4. Have in mind
an increase that can be supported by your documentation.
Also consider perks or other benefits in lieu of a salary increase. This
could include tuition aid, flex-time, additional vacation days, etc.
5. Stage a "dress
rehearsal."
Anticipate the objections you're bound to receive. Write down your presentation
or present it in front of a mirror. Consider a "dress rehearsal"
with a trusted friend or colleague who can play the role of devil's advocate.
6. Don't ambush
your boss.
When scheduling the meeting, let your boss know your purpose in advance.
This will give him or her the time to prepare and to seriously evaluate
your request.
7. Be confident
and professional.
According to Scott Reeves in an article in Forbes.com, there are the "seven
no-nos when seeking a raise":
1. Don't act
like you're entitled to a raise.
2. Don't tell your boss why you need more money.
3. Don't stamp your feet, pound on the desk or cry.
4. Don't say you should be paid the same as Good Old Billy Bob.
5. Don't threaten to quit.
6. Don't get personal
7. Don't go for overkill.
To read the entire
article, click on
http://www.forbes.com/2006/01/04/careers-work-employment-cx_sr_0105bizbasics.html
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