Get Your Bullets Ready
What you need to know before asking for a raise at work
I recently posted on Twitter about getting a raise at work. In this Twitter post, I suggested that it was much easier to show value before going into the negotiation room.
A reader responded to me and said: "Well, we should just ask anyway."
I'm afraid I have to disagree with this position even though I understood her reasoning.
You see. Asking for something you deserve is never a bad idea. After all, we have freedom of expression. In addition, employers expect you to make these asks occasionally during your engagement.
Asking Just For The Asking Won't Get You Far
While it's easy to ask for the sake of asking, it won't get you very far.
Salary increase discussions can be very tense and fragile.
Why?
Because most people are not very good at making an ask. It's challenging. We are not wired to ask for money.
Unfortunately, this is a skill we must develop.
Why?
You don't get it if you don't ask, especially in some industries.
So, while asking, you want to ensure it's the right moment and you have the right reasons.
More importantly, you'd need some strong points to help you negotiate better. I call these strong points "bullets".
Your bullets can be results, accomplishments, KPIs achieved, customers acquired, revenue growth or anything that has improved due to your input.
Why Value Is The Real Deal For Negotiations
“Appraisals are where you get together with your team leader and agree what an outstanding member of the team you are, how much your contribution has been valued, what massive potential you have and, in recognition of all this, would you mind having your salary halved.” – Theodore Roosevelt
Some years ago, I found myself in this position. I knew I needed to have a conversation with my manager about getting a raise.
Before getting greedy, the first thing I did was outline recent successes and achievements within the team. I knew I would need to make a strong case for myself to achieve the desired outcome.
In the end, it was a fruitful conversation. The manager found reasons with me and took action immediately.
Now Imagine I didn't have bullets to support my ask. I am sure it would have been an awkward conversation.
Again, the best way to seek a raise is by asking on the premise that you have added value to your team or employer.
Employers love to see results. Going into the negotiation room with an entitlement mindset instead of a result mindset might not end with the desired results.
Before ringing your boss or asking your manager for a meeting to discuss your raise, ensure you have your bullets ready to strengthen your case. You want to come off that meeting accomplished even if your request was not granted immediately.
Closing Thoughts
Asking for a raise at work has become a norm, especially in the private sector.
Sometimes employers might not see the need to increase your salary because they are too busy with other priorities or don't see a need to do so. It's never a bad idea to ring the bell by inviting your manager for a quick chat about a potential increase in your salary.
However, before taking this leap, ensure you've got some bullets to strengthen your case.
“It is not illegal to negotiate effectively.”
― Dax Bamania
Entering a room with an entitlement mindset without results might not end with the desired results.
So, for my Twitter reader who responded to me, I'd say again that the best way to go into any negotiation is by having bullets ready to aim and fire up your salary increase.
Do not negotiate simply because you think you deserve more money based on your personal circumstances.
Arm yourself with bullets before that negotiation.
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