If you feel like your hard work has earned you a pay raise, then you should ask for one. It’s funny, a lot of people get really nervous when they consider asking for a raise because they think it will hurt their relationship with their boss. But, your boss expects you to ask for a raise; it’s his job to weigh your performance and decide whether or not you deserve one.
Still, it’s important to use a little tact when you go in for the “big talk.” Know what you have to offer before you ask your boss for a spare minute. Your attempt will be way more successful if you get it all worked out ahead of time, because you’ll have confidence and focus. My good buddy has been working for the same Salt Lake City DUI lawyer for a couple years now, and I helped him rehearse for a week before he asked for a raise–he totally nailed it.
Since he got the raise his boss has been asking for his help more and more, and has been treating him like a colleague. My friend is starting to make a name for himself as a DUI lawyer in town, and he is overall happier at work. This all got me thinking, so I decided to do a little research. Apparently, people who are assertive about pay raises tend to make more money and keep their jobs longer than people who don’t. If you are willing to step out of your comfort zone it could really pay off.
After the fact, my friend felt a little silly for making such a big deal about asking for a raise, because his boss was happy to give him a reward for his hard work. It was one of the smartest things he’s done in a while.