Employment contracts come with job descriptions, but the employer might not indicate how often you can negotiate your pay. It might be frustrating when you deserve a raise at work but can’t get one. After putting in so much hard work, asking for a raise wouldn’t be a bad idea. As a human resource expert, I’ll show you seven ways to ask for a raise if you are being underpaid. If you’re feeling insecure – focus on that luxury accommodation in Tasmania you wanted to book! You deserve this! 

Evaluate Any Grounds for Objections

You should be ready to respond to any questions from the employer that might work against a raise in your salary. The human resources manager has to strike a good balance during negotiations. So, smart employees should expect some objections to their requests for a raise. The best plan to tackle any possible objections is to have a strategy. Think of possible responses from the manager if your company is going through a financial crisis. 

You can counter the response with an update of your latest performance review score and previous work evaluations. Eventually, you might not get an outright reply; but the HR manager can keep your request in view. 

Build Your Confidence Level

Performing very well at work, and surpassing targets can boost your level of confidence. You should know that it’s not abnormal to ask for a raise. Normally, some workers have low confidence levels, and might not know how to approach HR. However, it’s very reasonable to ask for a raise in salary when you deserve one. Most companies have employment policies for salary reviews, but hard-working employees can increase their chances with verbal proposals. 

Usually, a raise in salary is recognition of the employee’s contribution to an organization. Having a positive outlook about your request can be triggered by your level of performance, experience, and confidence. Professionally, I advise employees to have a great working relationship with colleagues and their managers.

Hope for the Best, but Expect the Worst

If things go ‘south’ after asking for a raise in salary, it’s not the end of the world. You have to be calm, don’t feel bummed out when your request is turned down. Instead, renegotiate and ask your manager to consider your request. I had a job in Hobart that I wanted a raise at, but was denied, and it’s OK! When you are not satisfied after a delayed response that’s unfavourable, be straightforward about accepting another job when there’s an opportunity. Try to hint at your employer, gently, with a negotiation when you get approached by other employers. 

Don’t Back Off

The best time to schedule a discussion with your employer is after work hours. They are often calm and ready to listen when you have put in so much hard work. Usually, every organization needs diligent staff to excel in business. Don’t forget that managers evaluate the performances of employees. So, a gentle reminder that you deserve an increase in pay is a smart move.

Have Information about the Job Market

It’s not proper to ask for a raise after three or six months of employment. It shows your lack of understanding of the organizational structure and company policy. Knowing what’s obtainable in the job market can help. Be in the know; understand the pay structure of what people in similar roles earn, across your industry. 

Get Offers from Other Employers

Usually, the hardworking staff is amongst an organization’s most valuable assets. Most HR managers don’t want to lose their hard-working staff to competitors. The job market is very accessible; especially with the rise of the internet, where people can apply easily and quickly. You’ll find advertisements from similar companies for your role and experience level. Use this information to convince your manager to give you a raise. Also, you can ask senior colleagues in the industry for help on job openings, and how to negotiate a pay increase.

Timing is Important

Every job role requires an increased level of contribution to the organization. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship that must be rewarding for both parties. It’s immature to ask for a raise if you can’t back it up with evidence as to why you should. Understanding your company’s employment policy can help you evaluate the due date of your next salary review. Additionally, timing is an important factor when you need an increase in pay.