How can you overcome resistance to get a raise or promotion?

Getting a raise or promotion is not always easy, especially if you face resistance from your boss, your colleagues, or yourself. Resistance can take many forms, such as lack of feedback, unclear expectations, unfair comparisons, or self-doubt. However, you can overcome resistance by applying some effective strategies that will help you demonstrate your value, negotiate your worth, and boost your confidence. Here are some tips to help you get a raise or promotion despite resistance.

1 Assess your situation

Before you ask for a raise or promotion, you need to assess your current situation and understand the sources and reasons of resistance. Is your boss aware of your achievements and contributions? Are your colleagues supportive or competitive? Are you meeting or exceeding the expectations and standards of your role? Are you confident and assertive in your communication? Answering these questions will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, as well as the opportunities and threats in your environment.

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Efezino omorobe

Project Manager | Software Testing| Application IT Support | Scrum Master | Facilitator | Multilingual (French & German) | Translator
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I wish to just put this out here as learned that if you feel you're not well appreciated in a particular organisation for the measures of work you put in to its success, doesn't mean you've not done your best in that company probably you do not meet their definition of success. That when you go to another company and you put in 70% of what you did in the previous job can land you a raise and/or a promotion. Then you wonder, what did I do differently. While we cannot erase the God factor, then there's the place of organisation and employee relationship and as well value recognition

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2 Prepare your case

Once you have assessed your situation, you need to prepare your case for a raise or promotion. This means gathering evidence of your value and impact, such as positive feedback, testimonials, awards, metrics, or projects. You also need to research the market rate and the salary range for your role and industry, as well as the criteria and requirements for the next level. You should also anticipate and address any potential objections or concerns that your boss or colleagues might have, such as budget constraints, performance gaps, or seniority issues.

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Efezino omorobe

Project Manager | Software Testing| Application IT Support | Scrum Master | Facilitator | Multilingual (French & German) | Translator
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In resisting the resistance for a raise or promotion - Do a self-evaluation on how you have carried out the role you were employed for - Have you been an initiator or a team player to achieving a project success within the company? - Have you received any accomplishment recognition by the company one way or at a time? - Have you personally developed yourself to match the vacant role? - Do you meet exceed OKRs/KPIs? If yes, then thoughtfully pen down your request to have a meeting with management involved to discuss your position, your market value. Firstly, put out an appreciation for the role given to you and the opportunity to serve in any other area. Applaud the company for its growth, the impact it may be having within its sector.

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3 Make your request

After you have prepared your case, you need to make your request for a raise or promotion. You should choose the right time and place to have a conversation with your boss, preferably when they are in a good mood and not too busy. You should also be clear and specific about what you want and why you deserve it, using the evidence and research you have collected. You should also be respectful and professional, avoiding ultimatums, threats, or comparisons. You should also be ready to listen and negotiate, as well as to follow up and confirm the outcome.

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Efezino omorobe

Project Manager | Software Testing| Application IT Support | Scrum Master | Facilitator | Multilingual (French & German) | Translator
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Make a case and not a demand State how being a part of a project success meant to you State how feedback from team mates and management have led to your self-development in delivering your role and with your upskills put forth what new can be attained when given the opportunity to attain your desired role.

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4 Handle rejection

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might face rejection or delay in getting a raise or promotion. This can be frustrating and discouraging, but you should not give up or take it personally. You should handle rejection gracefully and constructively, by asking for feedback, clarifying the expectations, setting a timeline, and expressing your appreciation. You should also use rejection as a learning opportunity and a motivation to improve your skills, expand your network, and seek alternative options.

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5 Celebrate success

If you succeed in getting a raise or promotion, you should celebrate your success and acknowledge your achievement. You should also thank your boss and colleagues for their support and recognition, and share your joy with your family and friends. You should also update your resume and LinkedIn profile with your new title and responsibilities, and seek feedback and guidance on how to perform well in your new role. You should also continue to grow and develop your career, by setting new goals, seeking new challenges, and pursuing new opportunities.

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6 Overcome resistance

Getting a raise or promotion can be challenging, but not impossible. You can overcome resistance by applying the strategies discussed in this article, such as assessing your situation, preparing your case, making your request, handling rejection, and celebrating success. By doing so, you will be able to demonstrate your value, negotiate your worth, and boost your confidence, and achieve your career goals.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you overcome resistance to get a raise or promotion?

1

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1 Assess your situation

2 Prepare your case

3 Make your request

4 Handle rejection

5 Celebrate success

6 Overcome resistance

7 Here’s what else to consider

Career Management

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How can you overcome resistance to get a raise or promotion?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess your situation

2 Prepare your case

3 Make your request

4 Handle rejection

5 Celebrate success

6 Overcome resistance

7 Here’s what else to consider

Career Management

Rate this article

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