Should I Ask My Boss For A Raise?

Do you think it's the right time to ask for a raise?

Do you have a good relationship with your boss?

Have you been on the same pay scale for some time?

Has your work responsibilities increased?

Have you been with the company for a long time?

Have you done some background work?

Many times, your company may not be doing so well or there could be problems at work. The overall business economy could be down during some time, so asking for a raise during such times is a futile idea as you'll not get the money you want. Instead, keep looking out and find the right time to ask for a raise.

If you have a good working relationship with your boss, you're likely to get the raise you want, or at least some amount of it, especially if it is within the power of your boss to give. But, if you have a bad relationship, be ready for a big no as your boss may not even recommend you to the higher authorities if all is not well. If that's the case, mend the relationship with your boss and even possibly ask to be moved to a different team before you ask for a raise.

When was the last time you got a hike? The answer to this question can decide if you should ask for a raise or not. In general, if you've not had a raise for the last three years, it's about time to ask for one. On the other hand, if you got a raise only about six months back, it makes no sense to ask for a raise and you're more likely to get rejected.

Over the last few months, do you think your work responsibilities have increased substantially. Again, if you answer in the affirmative, there is some ground to ask for a raise. But if they have remained the same and if you've had a raise in the recent past, don't even think about it. Instead of wasting the opportunity now, wait for the right moment and ask for it.

If you've been loyal to the company and have been working hard for its growth, you have a right to ask for a raise. That said, never ask for one if the company is in bad shape or if you've had one recently.

Before you ask for a raise, do some background work. See if the salary you're getting matches with the industry standards and what people of your age, qualification, and skills are getting for the same type of job you do. Gather the numbers to support your case, so you can have better leverage during the discussion.

Now it is time to talk to your boss and back your request with numbers to show him or her that you're due for a raise.