Workplace Etiquette: Asking for a Raise in a Tough Economy
Posted on Thu, Mar 18, 2010
by Jeremy Willinger
Asking for a raise or change of title at work is never an easy task. Sometimes people wonder if the stress of asking is worth the eventual payoff. Yet, knowing the proper way to approach your superior with this nerve-wracking request will better position you to receive the increase in salary you seek.
The number one rule in asking for a raise is to plan ahead. Much like when you were interviewed for the position you now wish to get paid more for, avoid going in without having researched and found facts. Detail and document your achievements so your boss can see the success you’ve experienced and how your work has contributed to the company’s goals and bottom line. By researching competitive salary ranges for your position, you can better judge how much to request and what others in your role are making.
The second most important tip is to consider the timing of your request. If your company has been hard hit by the financial crisis, or is on a hiring freeze, asking for more money demonstrates a lack of compassion and can ultimately harm your future prospects within the organization. Mentioning to your boss, ideally over email so nothing comes as a surprise, that you are interested in discussing your salary and role with the company, shows that you respect his or her time. Tenure at the company is also relevant to timing: asking for a raise before one year of service is inadvisable.
After a meeting is scheduled, do not share this information with anyone in the company—this also applies once you have the answer to your request. More importantly, do not schedule a vacation immediately afterwards, or call in sick, regardless of the response, as you will be under increased scrutiny by your superior. If your boss does not grant your request, consider how you can better demonstrate your commitment to your job, or plan an exit strategy that will not hurt future employment prospects. Using these tips, you stand a much better chance of receiving a few extra dollars in your paycheck, and can look forward to future steps up the corporate ladder.