7 Steps To Get The Raise You Deserve

People hate negotiating for themselves, let alone having to ask for a raise... they would probably rather be in a public speaking competition.

BUT know that with the right strategy, there is a way you can yourself up for success. If you have been at your company for a few years or you have taken on new responsibilities, understand, that it's time you are an advocate for yourself... when the time is right.

To help you along the way here are seven essential steps to follow, to get that well-deserved raise.

1. Assess Your Value and Contributions

Before you even think about approaching your manager, take time to reflect on your contributions. Have you taken on more responsibilities? Exceeded performance goals? Think about the specific ways you've added value to your team or department. Perhaps you've led a successful project, streamlined processes, or helped improve customer satisfaction. Having a clear understanding of your value will give you the confidence you need to make your case. Be sure to highlight quantifiable achievements, how have you; Increased revenue, reduced costs, or increased efficiency?

2. Research Salary Benchmarks

Once you're confident about your accomplishments, the next step is to understand your market value. Research the going salary for your position, industry, and region. Understand that where your company is located, the size and your role does make a difference regarding your salary. So gather your data. Check job descriptions in your field, ask colleagues in similar roles, hire a professional to give you insight and gather your data. This will help you understand whether your current pay is in fact, in line with industry standards and give you an idea of what a reasonable raise request would look like. If you're underpaid compared to peers in similar roles, this adds weight to your argument.

3. Time Your Request Strategically

Timing can significantly impact the success of your raise request. Try to align your request for a meeting with company success, such as after a profitable quarter or after you've completed a major project. It’s also helpful to coincide your request with the company’s annual review or budgeting process, as these are times when managers are already thinking about salaries. Avoid asking when the company is going through tough times, a major purchase, budget cuts or layoffs, as the likelihood of getting a raise will be lower.

4. Build a Strong Case for Yourself

When it's time to ask for a raise, you need to be well-prepared with facts and figures. Go into the conversation with a clear outline of your accomplishments and how you've gone above and beyond in your role. Be ready to provide specific examples and back them up with data. For instance, instead of saying “I work hard,” say “I implemented a new process that reduced operational costs by 15% over the past six months.” These tangible results will make it difficult for your manager to overlook your contributions.

5. Schedule a Dedicated Meeting

Never ask for a raise in a casual or offhand way. Set up a formal meeting with your manager to discuss your compensation. This shows that you're taking the request seriously and that you're organized and professional. Let your manager know in advance that you'd like to discuss your role and compensation, so they can come prepared as well. During the meeting, stay calm, direct, and confident in your delivery. If you need to practice beforehand, so you are confident. Confidence is key. Clearly state the raise you're asking for and back it up with the evidence you've gathered.

6. Be Prepared for Negotiation

Know your number... and then ask for a bit higher so there is room to negotiate. It is possible that your manager might counter your request with a lower figure or might not be able to grant a raise... immediately. This is your time to ask, when and how can it happen. STAY CALM and be open to negotiations. If they offer a lower raise than you asked for, think about whether it’s fair based on the data you’ve gathered. You don't need to say yes right then and there. See if you can consider negotiating for other benefits if a higher salary isn’t possible right now, such as more vacation time, flexible work arrangements, or a one-time bonus. Stay flexible and focus on finding a win-win outcome for both you and the company...and ensure they know you are not using this as a negotiation tactic against another offer. YOU WANT TO STAY, you just want to be paid more.

7. Plan B

There's always a chance your request might be turned down. If that happens, don’t be discouraged. Ask for constructive feedback and clarification on what you can do to position yourself for a raise in the future. For example, you could ask, “What specific goals or benchmarks should I focus on to revisit this conversation in the next few months?” Setting a clear path for future success shows that you're committed to your growth and willing to put in the work. Then ask for a follow-up meeting: “Would it be possible to reassess in a few months after I’ve made progress on the areas you mentioned? and THEN track your achievements closely so you're ready for the next conversation.

AND remember sometimes a company can't give you a raise, and it's not personal.

It's disappointing but understand that it might not reflect on your performance but could be due to budget constraints, timing, or other factors beyond your control so thank your manager, express appreciation for their time and for considering your request, and keep it all in your back pocket.

If you feel you truly are being underpaid and rejected multiple times it could be time to see what else is out there. BUT

STAY POSITIVE don't let the a no demotivate you. Continue performing your best, strengthen your relationship with your manager, and show you are a valuable team player as often... decisions about raises aren’t just based on performance but also on your standing and visibility within the company.

Jessica Glazer is the founder of MindHR INC an executive headhunting, career coaching and resume writing company based in Montreal, Canada