Few employees are paid what they think they are worth, and the only thing to do if you want more money is to negotiate a pay raise. Not everyone feels comfortable asking for a raise, however. In fact, research has shown that women are less likely to ask for a raise than men, which contributes to pay inequality.
Before knocking on your boss’ door, remember these tips for effectively negotiating a bump up in pay.
Come up with a Number, or at least a Salary Range
Negotiation will be more effective if you have a target number. If you have no idea what you want, then it will be very easy for your boss to mollify you with a token raise.
Instead, do some research to find out comparable salaries in your area. Take a look at your job duties and find comparable jobs. Also remember to factor in your experience. You can find salary information at different websites, such as salary.com.
Once you have reviewed salaries, come up with a salary range. The top number should be your goal and the bottom number should be the least you are willing to accept. If you can’t get the minimum, then it might be time to look for a job.
Draft a List of Accomplishments
You need to give your boss some reason to give you a bump up in pay. In particular, look for ways you have helped the company make more money or save money. You will need concrete examples to remind your boss of your contributions.
It’s important to pick out 2 or 3 major contributions. You don’t want to bore your boss with a laundry list of minor achievements, which he or she probably does not have time to listen to.
Also pull together some commendations you might have received from important clients or vendors. For example, you can print out an email in which a client praises you.
Approach Your Boss at the Right Time
An ideal time might be your annual performance review, but what should you do if that doesn’t roll around for another six months?
In that case, the Harvard Business Review recommends that you approach your boss after you have finished a big project or after you have volunteered for more responsibility. These actions should be fresh in your boss’ memory as he or she ponders your request.
Avoid Threatening to Leave
You need to negotiate a raise ethically, so avoid anything that reeks of coercion. Telling your boss you intend to leave during the busy season unless your demands are met makes you look unprofessional. However, if you have received offers from other firms, you can certainly mention that fact.
Be Professional
Remind your boss that you love working for the company and hope to stay. If you are nervous about negotiating a raise, you might come across as too aggressive. Make your case and tell your boss how much you would like for a raise. Don’t expect an immediate response.
Also avoid comparing yourself to a coworker, which makes you look unprofessional. Instead, talk up your accomplishments and let your boss draw the comparison herself.
Speak with a New Jersey Wage Discrimination Lawyer if Your Boss Doesn’t Follow Through
It’s one thing to promise you more money. But what happens if a promised raise never shows up in your paycheck?
At this point, you might need to consider your legal options. At the Sattiraju & Tharney, LLP, we are one of the top firms in New York and New Jersey for employment law issues. Contact us today by calling 609-722-7023.
FAQs About Negotiating a Pay Raise
How do I figure out how much money I should actually ask for?
Don’t just guess or ask for a generic bump. Do some research on sites like salary.com to look up comparable roles in your area, factoring in your specific job duties and experience level. From there, build a salary range where the top number is your ideal goal and the bottom number is the absolute minimum you are willing to accept.
What is the best way to prove to my boss that I deserve a higher salary?
Bring concrete examples of your value, specifically focusing on two or three major accomplishments where you helped the company save money or make money. You can also print out positive feedback or commendations from important clients or vendors to back up your claims, rather than just listing out minor daily tasks.
What should I do if my boss promises me a raise but it never actually shows up in my paycheck?
If your employer agrees to a pay increase but fails to follow through on the compensation, it may be time to look into your legal options. In these situations, you should consult with a wage discrimination or employment lawyer to discuss your rights and see if you need to take formal legal action.