After a year on the job and months of increased effort, if your salary hasn't kept pace, it's time to request a raise. Start by assessing your skills and role evolution to build a strong case. Don't wait for the annual review when everyone else is competing—prepare now and make your move.
Open a document, grab your favorite tea, and reflect: Do you deserve this raise, and why? Consider your impact from your employer's perspective—what results matter most to them? List your top strengths with concrete examples.
With skills identified, back them with proof. Highlight completed projects that drove company wins, like sales growth or glowing feedback. Bosses prioritize results—provide the evidence.
Teamwork builds loyalty. Demonstrate your broader impact: How vital are you? Have you trained colleagues, streamlined processes, or fostered efficiency? These show your indispensable role.
Research competitive salaries discreetly. Mention it subtly without ultimatums—signal your value elsewhere, but keep it collaborative and low-key.
Be direct yet realistic, aligning with company capacity and market rates. Overreaching risks seeming out of touch—aim for a fair, well-supported proposal.
Best of luck—you've got this!