In tough economic times you need to work smarter to get that pay raise. During the last recession in the 1970s, I worked as the assistant manager of an employment agency. I noticed that some of my clients were able to command higher pay than others who had the same education and skill sets. What set these clients apart from the others?

What's the secret to getting noticed, getting ahead and getting the paycheck you deserve?

1. Planning For the Pay Raise:

You'll notice that, during a performance evaluation, your boss may bring up errors you made several months ago. Your supervisor's job is to find ways to save the company money. By keeping detailed records of where you messed up and when you cost the company money, your boss is setting the stage to not give you a raise. Learn from this.

Keep records of everything you do right

Did you save the company money on one of your ideas? Write it down. Do you help other employees with their work so they can finish on time? Make note of it. Do your coworkers come to you as the person who can answer their business questions? Make sure you put that down, too. Unless you keep track, your supervisor may forget how much good you accomplished during the last quarter. It's your job to make sure the boss knows exactly how important you are to her department.

Did you receive a thank-you letter from one of your customers? Stick that in your file, too.

2. Become Indispensable:

Know your job. Then study on the side to know even more. Become the person other employees can come to for answers.Keep up with the latest technology. Stay informed about current events and world news. Be reliable, trustworthy and honest. This will make you stand out in the crowd and be the employee your boss can't live without.

3. Appearance:

This may sound basic, but that's the point. Neatness counts. Being well-groomed shows that you take pride in your appearance. It also shows respect for the people you encounter each day. To the customers, your appearance is a reflection on the company. If you spend only a few minutes throwing yourself together in the morning, it will show. Your customers may get the impression you'll spend just as little time taking care of them.

4. Arrive Early/Stay Late:

Looking good applies to more than just your appearance. The employee who arrives early and takes time to prepare his schedule for the day will look good to his supervisor.

Most employees make a beeline for the exit the minute their work day is over. Stay a few minutes

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to make more money at your current job?
We want to hear your view. Write now!