CAREER COACH

Think you deserve a raise? Here's how to ask for one

Sunday, January 13, 2008

If you're overdue for a salary increase, the way to get a raise is to know you deserve one and ask for it. When you are seeking a raise, you are not asking for a favor, you are conducting a business negotiation. Getting a raise means giving your boss a reason for wanting to help you get one.

If you are seeking a raise, follow the advice offered by Ron McMillan, co-author of "Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" (McGraw-Hill; 2002).

Don't ask for a raise unless you have done something to deserve one.

Determine what people doing similar work are earning elsewhere; information readily available on the Internet.

Show how you have gone above and beyond what was expected of you in terms of results, or how you have "added value" by taking on additional responsibilities.

Take job-related courses and learn new skills that can add value for your employer.

Time your request to coincide with the successful completion of a project or favorable financial results.

If you don't have a legitimate justification to support your request, create one. For example, offer to take on additional work if you are given a raise.

Make sure your boss recognizes the contributions you have made to her success -- not in a boastful way, but in a straightforward manner.

Demonstrate why you deserve a raise, remaining factual but explaining how you determined a higher salary is warranted. If your boss disagrees, ask him why. If possible, provide your supervisor with additional information to support your request, or ask what you have to do to be considered for a raise in the future.

Use the right words, couching your request as a good business decision.

-- Lee E. Miller is the author of "UP: Influence Power and the U Perspective- The Art of Getting What You Want" and co-founder of YourCareerDoctors.com, a Web site devoted to career success. During his more than 20-year career as a senior human resources executive, he has hired and promoted hundreds of employees. Send your career questions to Lee@YourCareerDoctors.com.