5 Smart Strategies for Getting a Raise

Speak Up
Automatic pay raises were once the norm, but in the wake of the Great Recession, companies put them on hold, and they’ve largely remained there. These days, it’s the squeaky wheel that gets the increase, and while there are no guarantees that being vocal will lead to more money, it does better your odds. Seventy percent of workers who asked for a raise got one. And 39% of those who asked got the amount they requested, while 31% got a different increase, according to one 2018 study.

Have the Conversation Early
It might seem logical to wait until your performance review to discuss an increase, but companies typically set budgets for the next fiscal year months in advance of scheduled reviews. Find out when raises are granted at your company—the beginning of the year, end of the year, the anniversary of start date—and begin broaching the topic with your manager at least three months prior.

Be Aware of Your Company’s Performance
Did the company just have a breakout quarter? Is management hiring like crazy? Or have they cut back benefits and it looks like jobs might be next? Research your company’s financial health—quarterly and annual filings, share price, recent hiring trends—before making your request. If you met your personal performance targets, but the company’s overall revenue declined by 5%, you may want to delay. But if the balance sheet looks good, the likelihood of your request being well received increases.

Do Your Homework 
Before meeting with your manager, gather as much comparative salary data as you can for your specific job and geographic market. Asking a recruiter in your field or asking a trusted colleague to share their own pay are both good ways to find this information, along with online research.

While outside research on salary is always helpful, you may also consider asking your internal human resources department for any information they can share on your company’s salary levels, or “bands.” Many companies have a maximum and minimum salary for a particular position, title or level. Finding out where your current income falls on their scale will help you assess whether to negotiate for a raise—or a promotion to a higher band. 

Make a Compelling Case
The most persuasive argument is backed by solid data and, employers tend to tie financial reward to performance. Prepare a bulleted list of your contributions, and connect those achievements directly to company goals and profit. To boost your comfort level going into the meeting, consider role-playing with a friend or trusted colleague before meeting with your boss.