The Right Way to a Raise

SPECIAL OFFER: - Limited Time Only!
(The ad below will not display on your printed page)

SAVE EVEN MORE! Say “Yes” to Ladies' Home Journal® Magazine today and get a second year for HALF PRICE - 2 full years (22 issues) for just $15. You also get our new Ladies' Home Journal® Family Favorites Cookbook ABSOLUTELY FREE!

Email:

First Name:

Last Name:

Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

< Back

The Right Way to a Raise

How to ask for and receive an increase in pay.

By Arrica Elin SanSone

It's all in the way you word your
request.

As anyone who has worked a job knows, a salary increase doesn't always come along just because an employee deserves one. Sometimes you have to ask, and if it's been a while since your last raise, or if you've recently gotten positive feedback from management, now's a good time.

However, says Larney R. Gump, D.Ed., a licensed psychologist and career counselor in Washington, D.C., broaching the subject in the wrong way could weaken your chances. Avoid lines like these:

"But so-and-so got a raise." Responsibilities are rarely the same, so comparing yourself to another employee isn't useful. Instead, point out your most recent accomplishments.
"If I don't get a raise, I'll quit." Don't give your boss an ultimatum. Instead, offer her a chance to problem-solve by saying something like, "It's been a year since my last raise. What can you do to help me?"
"I need the money." Your finances are not your boss's problem. Instead of telling her a sob story, ask how you can earn more.