How to ask for that raise without sounding whiny, arrogant, or demanding.
Why is it so difficult to ask for that long deserved raise? You've worked long hours, done more than your share, and haven't seen and have truly been a member of the team. You know you deserve? Although asking for more money may seem like a daunting task, it you want a raise any time soon, you better ask for it!
Before you walk into the boss's office, prepare your argument. You know that your boss can always say "no", but you want to make sure that they hear your side of the story, first! Make a list of all your accomplishments in the past twelve months. Make sure that your pattern is one of CONSISTENT accomplishments. Write a paragraph at the top of this list to summarize your performance in the past year. Type it up and have it ready to go when you get to work the next day. Make sure you ask for a raise early in the week; Tuesdays are the best days! (Your boss will probably be busy on a Monday, so don't interrupt him or her!) Of course, make sure you are on extra good behavior this week. You will be observed closely.
Make sure you let management know how much you like your job. Add a sincere compliment about your boss. Ask for what you want, and be prepared to compromise. Don't make threats of leaving or imply that you might resign. (Unless, of course, you plan to follow through!)
After you've conveyed your desire to be compensated better, let your boss take over. Let him or her tell you what the company could offer. On your part, you could give a general indication of how much people in your field get paid. Avoid any references to what coworkers are making. If your boss seems reluctant, make sure to give him or her time to think about it.
You fear your boss will tell you to take it or leave it
This one is a bit tough to get past. Your boss could be in a bad mood and could just throw this one at you, so it helps to have another job opening lurking on the horizon. In fact, there are those who get themselves a new job before they even ask for that raise. This could give them more clout, but it could also irritate your boss. So, it's a risk you must take. On the other hand, you could swallow the humiliation and wait for your next victory at work when you could ask for that raise again.
If you are turned down, make sure you find out why. Ask your boss "What would put me in line for a raise next time?" You will then be able to assess your job responsibilities and your boss's expectations. If the boss says that there simply isn't money in the budget, consider looking for another job. If they can't afford you after recognizing your
