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Ask
Remember when you were young and still on Mom and Dad’s
payroll? How often did they voluntarily increase your allowance,
and how often did you have to prompt them to open their wallets
a little wider?
The same is true in business. Though some companies regularly
give their employees merit increases, don’t let yourself
wait passively for something that may not materialize. And
don’t feel you have to accept what they offer. By taking
the initiative, researching what’s a fair amount, and
being ready to defend what you’re asking for, you’ll
be several steps ahead of the pack.
Once you know what others in your position and industry are
getting, you’re ready to map out your plan of attack.
At an appropriate time (your performance review, the beginning
of the year, on your anniversary, or when you’ve requested
a specific meeting with your supervisor), present your achievements
to date (see Think Ahead). Then
say something along the lines of: “I’ve done some
homework on average salary ranges in my job classification
and in our industry. According to my research, I think a fair
salary for my position and performance is X.”
At best, your boss will agree. At worst, she’ll give
you a flat out refusal. If she refuses, ask what she can give
you, and prepare to negotiate.
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