Do's and Don'ts When Asking for a Raise

If you’re thinking of asking for a raise, make sure to properly prepare before you make your proposal for a raise to vastly increase your chances of success. Many of us feel uneasy about salary negotiation because we feel uncomfortable asking for more money. So, it is important to build a strategy that will help you achieve the best possible outcome.

DO ask after a big accomplishment.

Brainstorm a list of concrete reasons as to why you deserve a raise, write them down, and rehearse them to ensure a confident and convincing delivery. In addition to listing your accomplishments, you could mention a recent expansion in your responsibilities at work, additional tasks you’ve taken on, new strategies you’ve adopted, and any plans you have to further increase your department’s success.

DO time your request accordingly.

Try asking when new funding is coming in, when the new fiscal year is starting, or when you think your employer could easily factor in an increase in pay. Request a meeting with your boss when they might have a block of time free to discuss a question regarding your salary.

DO dress the part.

Take those few extra minutes to put on a tie, iron your blouse, or pull your dress shoes out of the closet because even if your office dress code tends to be lax, when it comes time for your meeting, you should look the part. Although you don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard, looking polished and professional can’t hurt, and will only help you feel more confident as you make your case.

DON’T ask via e-mail.

You should have the conversation about getting a raise in person as it’s the best way to show that you’re serious. It will also allow you to gauge your boss’s reaction to your request - although it’s acceptable to schedule a meeting via email, we don’t recommend it.

DON’T ask at a high-stress time.

If your boss is particularly stressed and overworked, it’s probably not the best time to bring up the topic. Use common sense when you open about the possibility of a raise to your supervisor. If you can, wait it out and ask at least when you see that your supervisor is in a good mood.

DON’T give an ultimatum.

Unless you’re willing to lose the job, be careful about how you broach the topic. You don’t want to come across as too demanding. Of course, be confident and assertive in your request, but be aware of your tone and focus on being patient, professional, and understanding.

DON’T use information about colleagues’ salaries.

Avoid bringing office gossip into your discussion. Even if you know someone makes more money than you and you think that you deserve a salary that’s equal—or higher—it’s advisable not to mention it and use it as a reason why you should get a raise. Focus on your own individual experience and accomplishments and why you should get a raise – on your own merits, not based on what other people are getting paid.