In many companies, salary increases are based on seniority. However, at some point you may feel that you deserve a higher salary than what you are receiving. In this article you will learn how you can get a raise. When to ask for it and how to ask for it? Practical questions and tips will prepare you for the interview.
What should I tell my boss?
Companies often give raises to employees who perform well. Add value to their business and promise future growth. Before you ask for a raise, you need to ask yourself, "Why should I be given a raise?" ".
From an employer's perspective, here are some reasons why you're likely to get a raise.
You have fulfilled your obligations
One of the main reasons for a raise is usually job performance. It happens when you go beyond the requirements of your job description. Whether you are doing extra work or supporting your colleagues.
You are always listening to your superior and the members of your team. You know how to convince and demonstrate why your point of view is the right one. Your work is always quality work. You have proven that you are ready to learn new things and take on more responsibility. You are therefore on the right track, even if other parameters are to be taken into account.
The initiative
Companies tend to prefer employees who are given tasks they don't have to do. Always be on the lookout for new projects and ask how you can help or initiate a new project. You can also show initiative by seeking solutions to business problems and suggesting them to your boss.
Reliability
Companies are looking for employees who can reliably perform the work expected of them. If you always manage to meet deadlines, you have a great chance of getting the extra pay you deserve. Remember that a good project, but poorly managed can harm you. Avoid committing to anything and everything at all costs, because it will harm you more than anything else.
Develop new skills
Learning new skills or improving in your area of expertise can sometimes get you a promotion. Try to get new certifications to keep your knowledge up to date. If possible, participate in courses or seminars at a local university or participate in internal company training programs. If you want to improve your skills but don't know where to start. Ask your manager, they can certainly advise you on how to improve your skills and guide you towards the choices that will help you advance your career.
Positive attitude
Companies often look for employees who are team-oriented, collaborative and have a positive attitude. A positive attitude creates enthusiasm for work and attracts other employees who want to work with you and as much as you do. Unlike a negative and passive attitude, a positive attitude also promotes teamwork and team spirit.
Choosing the right time to ask for your raise
It is important to determine the right time to ask for a raise and to explain why. It is particularly important to consider your financial situation and your performance. The timing of your request will affect your chances of getting a raise.
When evaluating employees.
Companies often give raises or bonuses to employees as part of their annual performance review. Be sure to give personal examples of why you are asking for a raise. Saying “I want a raise because I've done well” is not enough. If the evaluation is positive, this is an opportunity to ask for a raise.
When a business is financially successful
A company's financial success affects its ability to give raises. Find out if your company is making budget cuts or layoffs.
If the business is growing, you can get a reasonable short-term salary increase. However, even in the face of difficulties, if you have done what it takes to attract the attention of your superiors. You can get a raise, provided you are not too greedy. Companies that can't afford it don't give out freebies.
When your seniority has become substantial
The amount of compensation you receive from the company may depend on the length of your contract with the company. If you've worked for the company for several years, you might deserve a raise for your commitment and hard work. Anyway, once you've figured it out. It's time for you to request an interview.
The day of the interview
Go to the interview confident in your abilities and judgment. Reflect on your abilities and accomplishments to build your confidence. If you think you deserve a promotion, the employer will consider it.
Demonstrate your confidence through your posture and body language during the interview. Make eye contact with your boss, stand up straight, speak clearly and smile. Approach the interview with enthusiasm and show that you are passionate about your work.
Present your evidence to back up your claims
It is important to be well prepared to ask for a raise. Make a list of your accomplishments since joining the company. Bring this list to the interview and try to remember them all. Present the list in a way that highlights your accomplishments and strengths and does not belittle your colleagues.
When building your list, focus on gathering quantitative information. Quantitative data provides measurable results and can better reflect your performance. These data are often presented as percentages. 10% increase in customer response, 7% decrease in complaint rate, etc.
Correctly determine your market value
It is important to aim for a realistic salary that reflects your skills, experience and industry standards.
If you want your raise to come with a promotion, briefly summarize your past performance and future plans. Discuss company goals and guidelines. When you set your career goals, let the company know how you want to achieve your goals and how you will contribute to the company's success.
Do not forget to thank your interlocutor
At the end of the interview, thank your boss for listening to you and thank him if you got the raise you asked for. Don't forget to write a letter to renew your thanks. Depending on your relationship with your boss, this letter can be informal or formal and may be sent by email or by mail.
In case of refusal
If the company doesn't offer you a raise, be prepared to negotiate a raise in another way. Consider negotiating benefits, such as one or more one-time bonuses. Ask about the possibility of a salary increase in the future. Of course remain cordial and do not lose hope. Next time might be good.
