Asking for a raise can be essential to receive appropriate compensation, especially if your job responsibilities have changed significantly or your performance warrants an increase. Standard pay raises typically range from 3% (average) to 5% (outstanding). Requesting a 10% to 20% raise, based on circumstances, can initiate negotiation.

Understanding when and how to ask for a raise is crucial. Choose an opportune time, such as after a successful quarter or a positive performance review. This guide is intended for employees seeking advice on requesting a raise and determining the appropriate amount.

Many individuals feel uneasy about approaching their supervisor for a raise. In cases where your company doesn’t offer regular annual salary increases and you’re not in line for a promotion, asking remains a viable way to secure a deserved raise. Remember, it’s entirely acceptable to request a raise, and most managers and business owners aim to care for their employees.

Despite the seemingly daunting nature of the process, it doesn’t have to be if you’re well-prepared. Research and factual information can instill confidence as you initiate the conversation.

5 Tips for Requesting a Raise:

1. Highlight Your Achievements: Document your accomplishments over the past six months, the last year, and your overall tenure. Explain how these achievements positively impacted your department and the company as a whole, providing specific figures if possible.
2. Understand Competitive Salaries: Research comparable salaries for your position on websites like Salary.com and PayScale. LinkedIn is also useful for this purpose. Factor in industry, company size, and benefits. Seeking advice from recruiters or hiring managers can provide insight.
3. Articulate Mutual Benefits: Frame your request in terms of what benefits your boss and the company. Outline your goals, how they align with the company’s interests, and your plan to achieve them.
4. Exude Confidence: Approach the conversation with confidence, armed with evidence for your request. Be prepared for potential resistance and acknowledge the possibility of a negative response. If granted the raise, continue demonstrating your worth.
5. Provide a Written Request: Give a written summary of your request, including comparative salary ranges and the company’s gains from your contributions. This aids your boss in discussing your proposal with higher-ups.

Determining the Raise Amount:

The typical raise is around 3%, with a good raise ranging from 4.5% to 5%, and amounts surpassing this considered exceptional. Factors such as time since your last raise and reasons for the request impact the percentage. Changes in responsibilities can justify a higher raise.

Timing the Request:

Common sense dictates the timing. Avoid sensitive periods like layoffs or when your boss is dealing with personal issues. If your company follows an annual raise schedule, propose your request a few months in advance.

Approaching the Conversation:

Schedule a meeting in advance, respecting your boss’s time. Prepare, similar to a research report, and address key points during the negotiation.

After the Request:

Expect the initial response to be a delay for discussion with decision-makers. In case of rejection, inquire about improvement areas. If accepted, express gratitude and maintain professionalism.

Asking for a raise need not be daunting. Present your achievements, align your goals with company interests, and provide factual evidence. Research competitive salaries and time your request well. Confidence and preparation can make the process smoother and more likely to yield positive results.

Tips for responding if they say yes

• Start with a higher figure than you’re actually expecting.
• Be willing to negotiate and compromise.
• Establish a timeline for when the raise will take effect.

Tips for responding if they say no

• Discuss alternative benefits, such as more paid time off or stock options.
• Thank them for their time and consideration.
• Don’t apologize.

Remember, negotiating a raise is a skill that takes practice. The more you do it, the better you’ll get at it. So don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve!