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5 Tips That Will Help You Get a Raise This Year

Topics: Negotiation

What would make 2014 better than 2013? If you’re like most of us, you’ll say, “More money.” (No, seriously: we’ve done research.) Of course, setting your mind on the goal isn’t enough to make it happen, all on its own. Here’s what you need to do.

money 

(Photo Credit: 401(K) 2013/Flickr)

1. Write it down.

Do You Know What You're Worth?

Don’t count on the boss to notice what you’ve been doing, and don’t rely on your memory to help you come up with your accomplishments, come review time. The only way to be sure that you’re not hiding your light under a bushel is to write everything down — every project completed, every deadline met, every dollar saved.

2. Use your math.

Most companies are in the business of making money, and all companies are in the business of saving it. Whenever possible, connect your accomplishments to a dollar amount. Nothing is more persuasive than cash.

3. Do your research.

How much do your peers make, with your experience and title and in your geographic area? PayScale’s Research Center will arm you with the knowledge you need to make your case.

4. Update your resume.

Even if you love your job and your company, it’s a good idea to keep your CV up-to-date. Why? Well, for one thing, it keeps you thinking about your role in a competitive way; for another, it shows that you’re prepared, should your manager request a copy while considering a new job title to go along with a potential raise. Finally, if things don’t work out, it’s one less thing to do while preparing to look for another job.

5. Ask.

Think it goes without saying? Think again. Especially if you opt to wait until performance review time, your litany of accomplishments might not say, “I’d like a raise” — at least not as clearly as asking for one directly. Be polite, but direct. Don’t expect your boss to read your mind.

Want to get your career on track in 2014? Sign up for PayScale’s Make It Happen email course. It offers the tools you need to get a raise, get a promotion, get hired, and get better at your job.

Tell Us What You Think

Have you turned your career dreams into reality? We want to hear from you! Leave a comment or join the conversation on Twitter using #MakeItHappen.

Jen Hubley Luckwaldt
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Lee
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Lee

In addition to cash you’ve brought to company (not always easy for employee to measure) track percents of new accounts/relationships; number of clients/accounts saved, letters of thanks you’ve received, your new ideas company implemented, kudos received from peers/customers, efficiencies like: you suggested inventory/products commonly handled are now at a lower/easier place to reach, you got more people to write on both sides of paper, you got people to pitch in to pay for the coffee or you increased # of… Read more »

Mark Denton
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Mark Denton

Ways to improve/increase my salary.

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