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Hi Taylor
- I've been at my current job for three years and I'm starting to
feel like I'm due for a raise. I also feel like I won't get one until
I ask and I'm terrified of asking and getting turned down. Should
I just do it? I love my job and would love it even more if my income
went up! - June
Hi June - It's a sad but true reality that some employers
won't give employees their due until they make a formal request. If
you've been there for three years, like the work, are good at your
job, and others have seen pay increases, then you have every right
to expect a raise. It should come without you having to ask, but sometimes
we have to go the extra step.
I have clients who I've helped navigate through similar situations
in the past. Every company is different, so you have to find the angle
that works for you and your position before making the request. That
said, this type of delicate situation is often best handled by a formulaic
approach. Essentially, you need to make a pitch as to why the company
will benefit from paying you more. Like any good project pitch, you
need to structure it properly.
The hardest part for most people is the introduction; opening a conversation
about how great you are and why you deserve more money can be uncomfortable.
I find people have more success with this part when they make it about
the company and the future: "I love the work we do here and I want
to be a part of it for a long time." Assuming that's true, it shouldn't
be too hard to say and it opens up the second part of your pitch -
the evidence.
As a valued employee, you've accomplished a lot over the last three
years. Think about those successes, then put a future-tense spin on
them: "I'm going to keep increasing our XYZ, just as I increased XYZ
by 20% over the last 18 months," etc. Again, these should all be true
statements. You don't have to brag and you don't have to sound needy;
you're simply pointing out that a pay raise for you is nothing more
than an investment in the company.
At that point, you've arrived at your conclusion, in which you reiterate
how glad you are to work there, how you appreciate your boss or manager
taking the time to meet with you, and how you'll respect whatever
decision is made. If you aren't properly compensated for your work,
you may have to rethink your relationship with that company. However,
it's more likely you'll get what you deserve and your employer will
appreciate you speaking candidly.
Never be afraid to ask for fair pay, June. As long as you do so with
confidence and integrity, you're doing the right thing. Good luck!
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| Legal Disclaimer:
Information presented is for educational purposes only and is not
an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific
securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve
risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to
first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional
before implementing any strategy discussed herein. To submit a question
to be answered in this column, please send it via email to Question@GoFarWithKovar.com,
or via USPS to Taylor Kovar, 415 S 1st St, Suite 300, Lufkin, TX 75901.
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