by Marlin Bressi

Created on: January 15, 2009   Last Updated: September 24, 2011

When it comes to increasing your salary, there are many different tried and true methods. Some involve extra work, some include sucking up to the boss, and some include playing hardball. Whether your approach to increasing your salary is active or passive, the first step is to quit talking about making more money and take action.

First, let's explore the obvious options. The easiest way to increase your salary is to work more hours or to be more productive. For many people, this is their last option because it requires work. So many people are focused on taking shortcuts to success that they overlook the value of good old-fashioned hard work. The other obvious choice is to ask for a raise, plain and simple. It never hurts to ask; the worst that can happen is that your boss will say no, and you will be no worse off than you were before. If your employer awards a raise, congratulations. If your boss defiantly turns you down, now it's time to up the ante.

If you have been mired in the same position for what seems like an eternity, with no chance for a raise or a promotion, it may be time for "the old squeeze play". Scour the help wanted ads for job openings that are similar to yours, and arrange a series of interviews. In order to pull off a successful squeeze play, you will have to break the rules of interview etiquette and have the interviewer discuss starting salary. The goal is to find a better offer than what you are currently receiving. Once you find a better offer, you simply tell your current employer that unless he or she can match or exceed the new offer, you are taking the other job. Ideally, the goal is to start a bidding war, with you going to the highest bidder.

If you prefer a more passive approach, a good way to increase your salary is by increasing your education. Developing new skills can open many doors, even at your current job. There are numerous classes that you can take at night, part-time, or from the comfort of your own home. When you increase your education, you also increase your value to your employer.

Finally, if all else fails, you can always master the fine art of sucking up. Sure, it will most likely turn your co-workers against you, giving them the opportunity to call you things such as butt-kisser, brown-noser, teacher's pet, or toadie, but if there are no other options on the table, a little sucking up wouldn't hurt.

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