source : hellobeautiful.com
You’re rocking it out at work, but don’t quite feel your pay is up to par. At some point, we’ve all been there. A girl has to get her coin and wants to feel adequately compensated for high-level work output. Learning the art and science behind how and when to ask for a raise can be tricky. Follow these rules and gain clarity to build your case for upping the ante.
Do the work
Before you start making demands for more pay, be sure you’re producing the results to back it up. Simply getting the job done isn’t going to cut it. Think about what you’ve done that has far exceeded the expectations of your superiors. Is your work performance unrecognizably surpassing that of your colleagues? If not, you may need to go back to the drawing board. Presenting facts about the cost of living, extra hours and meeting deadlines alone won’t always support the idea that you need more money if your work is mediocre at best. Make it clear that there is no comparison in the results you produce!
Do your research
That promotion you’ve been working hard for is so close you can smell it. Know what you’re asking for before waltzing into your boss’ office asking for more money. Don’t accept the job before doing your research. You keeping hearing “Know your worth” – but how do you find out what to ask? Do some research to support the dollar amount you plan to request. Don’t just throw numbers around because they sound good. When conducting research, analyze actual salary surveys for professionals with similar education, experience and credentials. If you’re noticing disproportion, you need to speak up. Compile this information for your case review and use the facts to substantiate your claim for better pay.
Be confident
A hanging head and puppy dog eyes won’t help you rake in the big bucks. One reason women fail to earn the salaries they deserve is that they lack confidence in negotiating. Women, especially African American women, are far less likely to negotiate job offers. It’s not because we feel like we’re not worth more – we either don’t know how to ask or what to ask. Remember there are more perks to negotiate in addition to salary such as paid time off, flex time, telecommuting, projects, or job titles. If you typically get sweaty palms or anxiety in these situations, try practicing ahead of time. Incorporate ego boosters like your favorite girl anthem, quote or power pose to ramp up your self-esteem. Whatever you do, own it!
Speaking a raise into existence is not enough if you’re not walking the walk. The foundation you present for better pay has to be so rock solid that denying you is not an option. Show them the proof in your pudding is pretty damn sweet!
