You’ve settled into your new job, and you’re cranking along, doing good work day after day. After six months or so, it may cross your mind to think about asking for a raise. But what’s the best way to tackle that (potentially awkward) discussion with your boss?
Approach the topic with humility
First, what not to do: Don’t barge into your boss’s office on Monday morning and blurt out that you’re underpaid and definitely deserve an immediate raise.
Instead, ask for advice.
Mention to your boss, in a sincere and honest way, that you want to continue to do your best work for the company. Ask about ways you could improve.
That opens the door for talks about upward mobility, and it shows you’re willing and that you intend to improve yourself in the company’s interest.
If you’d like a little extra help figuring out what to say, you can check out some sample scripts here, plus tips from managers about how to broach the topic in a professional, friendly way.
Work like you’ve already scored the raise — and document your efforts
If you really want to take on more responsibility and get paid for it, then start by assuming a bigger role at work before asking for a pay raise.
You can find out online about what you can expect to earn based on what you’ve accomplished (find your market value on the internet here). Then go beyond the requirements of the job and keep track of your accomplishments, large and small.
That way, when you do decide to ask for a raise, you’ll have documentation to back up your pitch. That will make it easier for your boss to look at your record and say, “Yes, I can see that you are capable of taking on a bigger role.”
Schedule the meeting, and be prepared to hear “no”
You’re ready. You’ve done your work and documented it, and you have answers to any questions your boss might ask about your record and why you deserve a raise.
You know your market value. You’re confident this is the right time to ask for a raise.
But what if the boss says no to your request?
Persevere. Salary negotiations can be ongoing, and you can check in again after your next performance review. In the meantime, keep documenting your accomplishments and working toward the job — and salary — you want.
When the time is right to ask again, you’ll be confident and prepared.
The key is the right mindset: humble, confident, and open to suggestions for improvement. Everything else will follow.
