Asking for a raise isn’t always easy, or at least that’s how we perceive it. So much unnecessary stress is piled on and the resulting fear usually leaves people to paralyzed to act. If you feel that you’re work, and tenure, warrant a higher paygrade, then you have nothing to fear. The only thing now is figuring out the best way to go about it. Below are 5 Creative Ways to Ask for A Raise At Work.
5 Successful Ways To Ask For A Raise
Direct Approach
If you’re the more direct type then this is perhaps the best way for you. When directly asking for a raise it’s important that you demonstrate confidence and most importantly, ensure that all of your ducks are in a row. The last thing anyone wants to do is demand that your employer pay you more money and you not have your house in order. This may be a good time to scan over your contractual job duties, line by line, and compare your performance to the expectations of your role. Lastly, be respectful but firm in your approach. Don’t look away, or frown. Simply show the resolve of a person who realizes they’re worthy of such a request.
Indirect Approach (The Inquiry)
I would venture to say that most people are not “direct” enough for the direct approach, and therefore would do better with a more indirect approach. One way to start the conversation with your boss is inquiring about the merit policy pertaining to the company. I highly recommend that you do your homework, though, before approaching. Review what policy information is on the books regarding merit increases and how they are determined. This way you can go to your boss armed with the right knowledge. By inquiring about the policy you will open up the door enabling a smooth transition into the discussion about your raise. If your boss is slow to the mark don’t hesitate to implement yourself into the equation to ensure the point is received.
Market Value Approach
It’s no secret that companies set their salaries around an average range according to what the industry is doing. If you were hired on as an Operations Manager, you can expect to receive a little more, and sometimes a little less, than the fair market value for that role.
Once many years ago I went to my superiors at a very large company and used this argument. My actions forced the top HR personnel to come in and re-evaluate the salaries of thousands of workers. As a result every single person received a raise accordingly. The company was paying far below the market value for each role, despite their multinational status.
Group Approach
Last but definitely not least is the Group Approach. Ever heard the saying; There Is Power In Numbers? Well, it exists for a reason. When you come together with others you not only increase your bargaining power, but your overall influence as well. Furthermore, you will have more brains focused on the matter in order to best tailor your approach. When you approach your leadership as a unified body they are compelled to act quickly and swiftly. A company’s workforce is the soul of any company, and the last thing that any good company wants is an unhappy workforce. When this is the case there is a shift in productivity and thus revenue. When people come together it speaks to leadership in a way much different, and more effective, than individually approaching the matter. A group approach represents a common concern across the constituency, and for company leaders this is potentially the beginning of much bigger problems if not addressed.
I hope that you find the courage to go and ask for what you know you’re worth. Asking for a raise isn’t a bad thing, it isn’t being greedy, it’s a gesture of self-respect, among other things. I wish you the very best and leave a comment and let us know which approach you took for your raise.
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