Asking For a Pay Raise? Here’s What NOT to Do

May 7th, 2023

5 min read

Asking For a Pay Raise? Here’s What NOT to Do

Looking for a pay raise? Approaching your boss with a request for a salary increase can feel like a nerve-wracking experience. You could make mistakes that hurt your chances if you're not well-prepared. To increase your odds of success, make sure you ask in the right way at the right time.

Here Are Things You Should Consider When Asking for a Pay Raise

When Should I Ask for a Raise?

Knowing when to ask for a raise is essential before diving into the do's and don'ts of requesting a salary increase.

Generally, it's best to ask for a raise during your annual review or at the end of the fiscal year when budgets are being planned. It's also important to consider your company's financial situation and whether they can offer a salary increase. If your company is going through a challenging financial period, there might be better times to ask for a raise.

Another factor to consider is your performance. Have you been meeting or exceeding your targets? Have you taken on additional responsibilities? If you can confidently answer these questions in the affirmative, you are in an excellent position to ask for a raise.

Things You Should Not Do

There are many common mistakes to avoid when asking for a raise. Here are a few things to remember:

1. Don’t Do it Via Email

Although email is a simple option, there are more effective ways to request a raise. It's essential to have a face-to-face conversation with your boss. This will allow you to gauge their reaction and have a more open and honest conversation.

Remember that misunderstanding often happens when communication is not done in person. Certain statements can be misconstrued and be taken differently. It is best to discuss this in person.

2. Don’t Ask in Times of Stress

Choosing the right time to ask for a raise is important. Avoid asking during times of stress, such as when your boss is dealing with a crisis or when they are busy with a project. Instead, choose when they are more relaxed and have time to discuss your request.

Empathy is essential when asking for a raise. You should learn to read the room and wait for the right time. Timing is everything.

3. Don’t Discuss Raises With Your Coworkers

It's essential to keep your request for a raise confidential. Discussing your request with coworkers can create tension and potentially harm your chances of getting a raise. It's best to keep the conversation between you and your boss.

4. Don’t Give an Ultimatum

Giving an ultimatum is never a good idea when asking for a raise. Approach the conversation with a positive attitude and an open mind. Giving an ultimatum can create tension and damage your relationship with your boss. After all, you are working together.

5. Do Not Rely on the Wage Advance Alone

It's essential to have a plan B in case your request for a raise is denied. Don't base all of your decisions solely on the outcome of this conversation. Consider other options, such as a promotion or additional benefits that could be offered to you. Having other options will show your boss that you are willing to work towards a solution that benefits both parties.

What Phrases to Avoid When Asking for a Raise

The way you communicate is always important when trying to convey essential information. How you start when opening the conversation about the increase will heavily impact your boss’ reaction. Do not ruin your impression with these phrases:

"I think I earned this..."

Effective negotiators don't rely on guesswork and act with confidence and knowledge. They make meaningful contributions to the organisation and do not hesitate to express it. If you are sure that you deserve something, tell them with respect but with conviction and certainty.

"I feel like..."

Feelings should not be involved when raising a point. It's important to be direct and efficient when dealing with business matters. You should not start your statement with "I feel."

"I'm planning to switch companies..."

This phrase may come off as a threat, significantly affecting your impression to your boss, who may grant you a salary increase. Always come with the best intentions and choose your words carefully. You can point out that you have received offers larger than your current salary (if this is true) but would love to stay with the company and grow with them.

"[Someone] is making more than me..."

This is a big no-no and may affect how you approach your boss. Asking for a raise is not a competition, and you do not want to risk being compared to the other person you are referring to. Focus on yourself only and your way of communication instead of introducing additional conflict to their decision-making.

Asking for a salary increase can be a stressful experience, but it's important to remember that you are entitled to request one if you feel that you deserve it.

To increase your chances of success, avoid common mistakes such as asking via email, discussing your request with coworkers, or giving an ultimatum. Instead, approach the conversation positively and have a plan B if your request is denied. By following these do's and don'ts, you'll be well on your way to getting the salary increase you deserve.

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For additional help, you can always download Wagetap. It is a leading wage advance and bill split app that allows you to access your pay early without late fees. Emergencies can always happen, and Wagetap can help you handle life's unexpected expenses.

For additional help in improving your spending habits, you can always download Wagetap. It is a leading wage advance and bill split app that allows you to access your pay early. Emergencies can always happen and Wagetap can help you handle life's unexpected expenses.

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