Last updated : Friday, May 20, 2011

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6 Ways to Get a Raise Faster

In today’s economy, raises are hard to come by, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t given. As an employee looking to move up within a company, you will have to go above and beyond normal expectations. Here are six ways you can speed up the process to a raise.

Document achievements
Make a list of all of your quantifiable achievements from the past year. If you are in sales, how much revenue did you contribute to the bottom line? If you are in marketing, how much did your research account for sales? Take note of all the new business you brought to the company, and include specific examples of how you have moved the company forward. If you can’t put a dollar amount to it, think about accomplishments you have made that bring the company steps closer to higher revenue. Maybe you have worked to bring the company good press or perhaps you worked on a team that won the company an award ... etc.

Volunteer for new projects
The more hats you can wear, the more valuable you are. Show your managers you can excel at many different types of projects by volunteering for new assignments (especially the ones nobody else wants). Not only will this increase your skill set, but it will show senior management that you are proactive, you take initiative and possess leadership qualities.

Learn a new skill
With technology constantly changing, workers who are on top of trends will undoubtedly have a leg up. Take a class outside of work; it will increase your value as an employee, enrich your skill set and show your managers you take your position seriously and want to learn new ways to succeed. 

Be positive
You could be the highest-performing worker on your floor, but if you walk around with a chip on your shoulder, your boss probably won’t be jumping to give you raise. Make sure you stay positive around the office and refrain from complaining about the company with coworkers.

Get organized
Become known as one of the more organized people in the office and you’ll also become known as one of the most reliable. Demonstrate your reliability by keeping records of emails, making sure to follow-up on requests and prioritizing to-do lists.

Ask
Once you feel like you’ve built a strong case for a raise, don’t hesitate to meet with your manager. Bring with you your list of achievements, awards, new certifications, etc., and state your case. Remember, companies don’t give raises to employees who appeal for them for personal reasons. Keep it to your professional accomplishments and development.

For more advice, go to the Career section.

 

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