How and When to Ask for a Raise

How and When to Ask for a Raise

 

While requesting a raise might be nerve-wracking, there are steps you can take to reduce your stress and improve your chances of success. Here is how to get ready for the big ask if you want to make more money.

 

Self-evaluation – Do you deserve a raise?

Before you make your request, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you go above and beyond what is required of you by your job description?
• Do you undertake extra responsibilities that aren't part of your job description?
• Do people look to you for leadership and advice?
• Would at least one co-worker describe you as essential to the business?
• Do people regard you as someone who get things done?
• Do you regularly broaden your knowledge of your industry?
• Do you consistently deliver exceptional results?

You'll be one step closer to receiving your raise if you can persuade your boss that most or all of those assertions about you and your job are true.

 

Tips for Asking for a Raise

 

Even if you are confident in the calibre of your work, it can be intimidating to request a raise. Here are some pointers to make the process run more smoothly.

Do Your Research

To learn what the going rate is for your position, speak with people in your sector and do some online research. Keep in mind that your degree of education, city of residence, and level of experience will all have an impact on your pay.

Pick the Right Time to Ask

Think about your company's finances before requesting a raise. When compared to hiring and training a new employee, it is generally less expensive for a business to pay a marginally more for a person who already knows the job.

However, there are periods when your business's finances are tighter than at other times, and there are times when the budget is more flexible. When preparing to request a raise, be sure to keep your employer's financial situation in mind.

Know Your Worth

Knowing what you bring to the table is crucial when requesting a raise. Make a list of your contributions and successes to support your argument.

• Display measurable results (for example, the percentage you have helped increase sales or the amount of money you have helped the company save by implementing a certain procedure). Think on the accomplishments of the projects you've backed. Give as many precise numbers as you can.
• Provide positive peer feedback. You can use emails from clients and co-workers praising your work as evidence that you deserve a raise. Did last year's performance evaluation go well for you? Use it to demonstrate your track record of producing high-quality work.
• Highlight your special abilities and background. What skills do you possess that others lack?
   

Leave Your Needs Out of It

Even if you have very good personal reasons for needing or wanting a pay raise, you shouldn't bring them up during negotiations. Most often, merit and prior success are used to determine raises. No matter how much your manager may want to support you, they will find it difficult to justify giving you a raise if you haven't proven that you deserve one.

Make it Mutually Beneficial

Employer and employee relationships should be based on mutual benefit. Try to keep this balance in mind when you speak with your employer about pay. Be assertive when requesting what you believe you are entitled to, but avoid giving ultimatums such as "give me a raise or I resign" unless you are truly prepared to find a new position.

Keep in mind that if your employer is unable to meet your request for a raise at this time, they might be open to discussing alternative "wins" such as better benefits or more time off.

What if Your Employer Says No

Your boss may decline a raise for a variety of reasons, which is why it is important to keep the relationship amicable when requesting a salary increase. A "no" now does not have to mean a "no" forever. Aim to increase your value at the organisation by expanding your work duties and improving your understanding of your industry.

 

How can we help you?

Are you searching for an opportunity in the construction industry or a hiring manager in need of construction talent? Get in touch today getus@jamesgrayengineering.com