Get the Salary you Deserve

Believe it or not there is a way to get that raise and not leave the company you're currently with. If you have been coming in early, staying late and have picked up extra responsibilities it may be time to have that dreaded conversation with management regarding MONEY. Trust me it really doesn't have to be that bad. Here are a few things to remember when preparing for the salary conversation.

Be confident. Don't be concerned that your boss may view your request as aggressive. This is a matter of self-worth. If you feel that you've truly earned a raise and can back-up your request with facts then you have every right to make the request.

This brings me to my next point the proof is in the pudding. You must provide the documentation to support your salary increase. You want to start to access yourself. Ask yourself "Am I happy", "Am I working above my title or pay grade?", "Have I taken on more responsibility?", "Have I increased my skills set by obtaining a certification or degree?" Create a comparison model between the duties of the job you were hired to do and your current responsibilities. Track and document the progress, time spent and outcomes of your projects. By doing this you might be able to make a good case for a promotion which will come with a raise. Know what you are worth by using resources such as salary.com which will create a report based on your location, industry and title.

Once you have scheduled the meeting with HR or your manager use the right words to toot your own horn. Directly point out how your ideas and recent accomplishments have saved the company money or streamlined a process. You can then validate your salary request based on what the company has received as a result of your accomplishments. Remember, reasons such as a slowing economy, high gas prices or the newest edition to your family are not reasons that warrant a raise.

While you may present the best case for the raise you undoubtedly deserve it won't guarantee that your wish will be granted. If your boss just won't budge or make some effort to compensate you you'll have to consider your options. Continued excuses about the lack of funds or bad timing might be a sign that it's time to move on. Any employer that values your hard work, commitment and work ethic will try to work something out. If they don't value you enough to pay you what you're worth another company will. Good luck!!