When to Ask for a Raise

Most people are hopeful they will never have to ask for a raise. It is an uncomfortable thing to have to do. Most people would like to assume that their boss knows how hard they are working and will automatically give them an annual raise. This is not always the case. Not every company is going to give yearly raises. If your yearly anniversary with the company comes and goes and no one mentions anything about a raise, it is up to you schedule an appointment with the boss, to go into his/her office and politely ask, “Are you happy with my work performance?” If they answer, “Yes,” then you need to follow that with, “Then why didn’t I get a raise? I’ve been here a year now.” It could be that it just slipped his mind. It could be that they always wait until an employee asks for a raise before considering giving them one. This saves the company money in the long run. One more important point. Do your homework before going in and asking for a raise. Make sure you know what others in the marketplace in your position are earning. This gives you more ammunition with which to fight and more leverage in getting what is deservedly yours.