Getting a Raise and Promotion: Do’s and Don’ts

Almost everybody thinks they should have a better job and more money. Before you decide to ask your boss for a raise and/or promotion, make sure that you deserve it. Take the steps to be the best worker you can. Then, and only then, use these tips to talk to your supervisor.

• Do make sure that you deserve the raise and/or better position. Just because you want it is not good enough.
• Don’t talk to your boss at the wrong time. Make sure that your company is in a position to pay you more or has an opening you want.
• Do remember that you are basically selling your services to your employer so you need to highlight how valuable you are to them. Talk about the things you have done for them in the past and use that as proof of the specific things you can do for them in the future. Sell yourself.
• Don’t talk about what you need. The fact that you need more money is irrelevant to your boss. His concern is the company and he wants to hear what you can do for him, not what you need from him.
• Do some research. Take a look at job posting websites and find out what others in your position are getting paid, especially in your area. Payscale.com is also a good tool for looking at the going rate for different jobs. You want to be able to have specific information when requesting a raise and you want to target a specific amount for that raise. Don’t just blindly ask for more money.
• Don’t threaten your boss. Do not tell your boss that you want that raise or that better position or you are quitting. No one likes to be threatened and even if you deserve it your supervisor may just tell you to go ahead and quit.
• Do be persistent, but Don’t be annoying. Let your boss know how you feel, state a well thought out argument and let him know you mean it. If they tell you they are considering you for the raise or new position, give them time to do so, but leave the door open for future talks. Don’t hound him everyday for an answer, but if it has been a couple of weeks you can bring the subject up again.
• Don’t get discouraged. If you don’t get the raise or you are passed over for the promotion make sure to keep working hard and do everything you can to make yourself a better employee. If that means taking on more work, learning new skills or taking night classes then do it. Remember, you are selling yourself to your company and anything you can do to increase your value is a good thing. You can always approach your boss again in 6 months.