by Rex Trulove

Created on: January 11, 2009   Last Updated: April 11, 2009

You want to increase your salary. Who doesn't? There are some great ways to do it, and some that aren't so good.

So many people in this day and age tend to have the idea; "I'd do more if they paid me more." For the employer however, this is totally backward thinking. Most good employers are willing to pay more for better and more work, but few are ready to pay more for just a promise of better work.

So how do you increase your salary if you can't ask for it in advance of the performance done? It should come as no surprise that the best way is to show you are more valuable now. This is a lot easier than it may sound.

Much of this is attitude. If you feel superior to everyone else and to management, you'll probably be overlooked. On the other hand, if you are constantly trying to be helpful in any way you can be, if you encourage fellow workers, and if you are constantly willing to do more than is expected of you, you have an upper hand up.

Nobody likes a coworker who constantly complains and who moans about any extra work given to him or her. Employers like it less, and though employers and managers may not say much, they do notice the attitude of their workers. Those with a great attitude are the ones who are going to advance, both in position and in salary.

Note that this has nothing to do with kissing someone's rear end. It may take a little time to teach yourself to be constantly cheerful, however anyone can do it and it is helpful to everyone around you, particularly if you deal with public. Cheerfulness and willingness are a fast ticket up the ladder in pay and position.

People tend to be too wrapped up around time. If you need to spend an extra five to ten minutes after work to help with something minor, what is the problem? You aren't paid by the minute (usually), so gladly offering the assistance will put you in a good light. Again, people will notice, and though your goal is to increase your salary, people you work with will notice your helpfulness, which can result in a better work atmosphere. Employers and managers notice that as well.

Likewise, employers and managers especially appreciate the workers they can count on. Being available for that big project or for when you know the day is going to be especially busy may be inconvenient for you, but it can be a lifesaver for the business. Even if the boss isn't one for giving compliments, it is something easy for them to recognize. On the other hand, if you call in sick frequently or often arrive for work

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