Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos

How To Ask For A Raise At Work (And Finally Get It!)

Episode Notes

Most women don’t ask. It’s time for you. If you’ve been hesitant or nervous about asking for a raise but know you want to land that pay increase, this episode is for you! Learn 8 strategies to get a “yes” from your boss.

Here’s a sneak peek:

  1. Tackle your self-doubt. Recognize that you are worthy of asking. This is a business deal. There’s no shame in asking. 
  2. List your accomplishments. Both tactical deliverables (the more specific, the better - numbers are best when possible) and character/personality strengths that make you likable and easy to work with. Support your case with why you deserve this.
  3. Know your number and be specific. What do you want? Ideal number and also what you will settle for. Do your research and know what’s standard or typical for the company. 3% is generally standard. Some companies have both merit and standard of living increases.
  4. Keep your boss’s and the company’s interests in mind. What matters to your boss? Where does your potential raise intersect with what they want?
  5. Be confident and considerate. Be mindful of body language, tone, and words that can make you sound hesitant. Don’t waffle or waver.
  6. Paint a positive picture. What will this enable you to do for the company and how will it help you be more engaged/dedicated, etc?
  7. Practice in advance with a friend or coach. Anticipate questions and objections.
  8. Be clear on next steps - if it’s a “no” ask why (what is the logic/help me understand) and use it as a learning. Ask what you can do going forward, ask if you have their support and be persistent with a timeline - can we revisit this in 3 months?

Some resources for you:

Want to speak with confidence and get 3 tips to command any room? I’ve got a free workshop on Zoom: Sept 18 from 12-1 PT / 3-4 ET. Sign up here: https://karenlaos.com/become-a-confident-communicator-free-workshop/

When women come together, magical things happen. If you’re looking for connection and community, join us on a free Zoom call: Sept 27 from 8-9am PT/11-12 ET to talk about what gets in the way of asking for what we want. It’s a safe and supportive place where we share resources and encourage one another. You can sign up here: https://karenlaos.ac-page.com/conversation-connection