Learn how to secure a raise or better salary while maintaining a positive relationship with your employer with effective job search strategies.

BRUTAL TRUTH: If you want a raise - make sure you bring that up MONTHS before you ask for it: 0 Issues. What does waiting do? It allows you to show your worth and let your boss see how valuable you are during this time. It doesn't matter if you are asking for a raise for personal reasons, or to hit industry standards for pay, it all comes down to what you are worth. Show off your achievements, what you helped the company streamline over these months, saving them money and time... Perhaps you increased ROI with your strategic play, or maybe you helped them bring in a better team that lowered attrition rates that were sky high. Whatever it is - remember if you don't bring it up- they won't know. Meet to discuss. No friction necessary.

Last updated on Jul 16, 2024

Here's how you can secure a salary or raise without damaging your relationship with your employer.

Navigating the delicate process of asking for a raise or negotiating a higher salary can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can make a compelling case without jeopardizing your work relationships. You'll want to be well-prepared, understanding not only your worth but also the company's position. Keep in mind that timing is crucial and that you should approach the conversation with a positive mindset, aiming for a win-win outcome. By being respectful, transparent, and strategic, you can open the door to better compensation that reflects your contributions without causing friction with your employer.

1 Know Your Worth

Before initiating any conversation about salary, it's vital to understand your value in the job market. Research what others in your field and geographic area are earning, especially those with similar experience and qualifications. This will give you a solid foundation for your request. When you're aware of your market value, you can confidently articulate why you deserve a raise. Remember to consider your unique contributions to the company, such as specific projects you've led or efficiencies you've introduced. These personal achievements can strengthen your case for a salary increase.

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Amanda Goodall

The Job Chick – Powering Executive Careers with Resume, Interview & Leadership Coaching | Startup Advisor | Text 631-479-9033 | →5X Top Voice🥇| 4X Founder | Oh, and YES, I’m Reinventing Recruiting ❤️ Mom to 9
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BRUTAL TRUTH: If you want a raise - make sure you bring that up MONTHS before you ask for it: 0 Issues. What does waiting do? It allows you to show your worth and let your boss see how valuable you are during this time. It doesn't matter if you are asking for a raise for personal reasons, or to hit industry standards for pay, it all comes down to what you are worth. Show off your achievements, what you helped the company streamline over these months, saving them money and time... Perhaps you increased ROI with your strategic play, or maybe you helped them bring in a better team that lowered attrition rates that were sky high. Whatever it is - remember if you don't bring it up- they won't know. Meet to discuss. No friction necessary.

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Promise Irabor

Professional Resume Writing Services | Helping job seekers land their dream jobs using ATS COMPLIANT resumes, cover letters & LinkedIn profile optimization | Job Search Strategist
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This process requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. Firstly, you have to prepare your case which includes your documents, achievements, contributions and added value to the company. You schedule a meeting. Request a discussion with your supervisor to explore possibilities. Confidently and respectfully ask. Present your case, highlighting your value and accomplishments. Also consider alternative solutions, like additional benefits or a title change. Demonstrate your commitment to the company and your role. Lastly, summarize the discussion and agreed-upon next steps. By being prepared and respectful, you can effectively negotiate a salary or raise without damaging your relationship with your employer.

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2 Timing Matters

Choosing the right moment to discuss salary can significantly impact the outcome. Aim for a time when the company is performing well financially, and avoid periods of budget cuts or layoffs. It's also wise to consider your personal performance milestones or the completion of a significant project. By aligning your request with positive business developments or your own professional achievements, you demonstrate a thoughtful approach and increase the likelihood of a favorable response.

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Dayvisson DaSilva

Sales Executive @ Microsoft Non-Profits | MBA | Solution Specialist | Account Management | 2X Founder | Adjunct Faculty | Host of DayvissonGPT
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When discussing salary, timing matters. Choose a moment when the company is financially stable, avoiding budget cuts or layoffs. Consider your personal performance milestones or the completion of a significant project. By aligning your request with positive business developments or your achievements, you demonstrate a thoughtful approach and increase the likelihood of a favorable response.

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3 Prepare Your Case

When preparing to negotiate, develop a clear and concise argument that highlights your achievements and the value you add to the company. Practice your pitch to ensure you can present it confidently and calmly. Anticipate potential questions or objections from your employer and think about how you'll address them. This preparation shows that you're serious about the discussion and ready to engage in a professional dialogue about your compensation.

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4 Positive Approach

Approach the conversation with a positive and collaborative attitude. Express gratitude for opportunities you've had with the company and emphasize your commitment to contributing to its success. Avoid ultimatums or confrontational language, as these can damage relationships and decrease your chances of a successful negotiation. Instead, focus on how an increase in your salary is not only a reflection of your worth but also an investment in the company's future.

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5 Be Flexible

While you should have a clear goal for your desired salary, it's important to remain flexible during negotiations. Consider other forms of compensation, such as additional vacation days, flexible working hours, or professional development opportunities. Sometimes, non-monetary benefits can be just as valuable and may be more feasible for your employer to provide. Showing willingness to compromise can help maintain a positive relationship with your employer while still achieving an improved compensation package.

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Dayvisson DaSilva

Sales Executive @ Microsoft Non-Profits | MBA | Solution Specialist | Account Management | 2X Founder | Adjunct Faculty | Host of DayvissonGPT
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When negotiating salary, remain flexible. While having a clear goal is essential, consider other forms of compensation, like additional vacation days, flexible working hours, or professional development opportunities. Non-monetary benefits can be valuable and feasible for your employer. Demonstrating willingness to compromise helps maintain a positive relationship while achieving an improved compensation package.

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6 Follow Up

After the conversation, regardless of the outcome, send a thank-you note to your employer for considering your request. This shows professionalism and maintains goodwill. If your request is declined, ask for feedback and what you can do to be considered for a raise in the future. If your request is accepted, ensure you understand the new terms and express appreciation for the recognition of your work. Following up demonstrates your commitment to the company and helps solidify the professional respect between you and your employer.

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Dayvisson DaSilva

Sales Executive @ Microsoft Non-Profits | MBA | Solution Specialist | Account Management | 2X Founder | Adjunct Faculty | Host of DayvissonGPT
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After the conversation, regardless of the outcome, send a thank-you note to your employer for considering your request. This shows professionalism and maintains goodwill. If your request is declined, ask for feedback and inquire about steps to be considered for a raise in the future. If your request is accepted, ensure you understand the new terms and express appreciation for the recognition of your work. Following up demonstrates your commitment to the company and helps solidify professional respect between you and your employer.

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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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Here's how you can secure a salary or raise without damaging your relationship with your employer.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Your Worth

2 Timing Matters

3 Prepare Your Case

4 Positive Approach

5 Be Flexible

6 Follow Up

7 Here’s what else to consider

Job Search Strategies

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Here's how you can secure a salary or raise without damaging your relationship with your employer.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Your Worth

2 Timing Matters

3 Prepare Your Case

4 Positive Approach

5 Be Flexible

6 Follow Up

7 Here’s what else to consider

Job Search Strategies

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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