by Bobbie Ann Pimm

Created on: May 20, 2007   Last Updated: May 21, 2007

So you are thinking of asking for a raise. Good for you! In my 12 years with one company, I successfully negotiated a raise three times. To be honest, it's nerve-wracking, but if you really feel that you deserve more, you can do it. Here are a few tips:

Plan ahead well ahead. As soon as you get your review and raise, you should be planning for the next one. If you haven't, then you'll have some work to do before you reach out to your boss.

Make lists. The first one should be of all your major accomplishments for the past year. What have you done to increase productivity, save money or increase sales? Give specific numbers wherever you can. Did you successfully negotiate a major deal or lure in a new client? Did you successfully complete a major project, on time and under budget? Keep in mind, the boss is only interested in the bottom line. What have you done to increase it? The more items you have on your list, the better. Now is not the time to be humble, just be honest. No one else is rooting for you here you have to do it yourself.

The second list is for your responsibilities and obstacles. Have you taken on new responsibilities? Have you overcome any major obstacles? Are you working with fewer staff under you? Has your quality of work not suffered, or even increased in spite of these?

The third list is what you hope to accomplish in the coming year. Show him that you are looking to the future. Can you suggest any changes to increase the bottom line? Where would you fit in? Be realistic but don't put him on the defense don't offer changes to any of his projects, unless you know he is open to suggestions. If there is a pet project of his that's under consideration, let him know that you're excited about it.

Do your homework. Research the salary range for your level of responsibility in the industry. Be prepared to tell him why you deserve more than "average" by referencing the above.

Timing is crucial. If you know the company policy is that raises are only given at review time, once a year don't ask for a raise mid-year. Your answer will be a flat-out, "No". Wait for your review and if you don't get what you deserve, ask at that time don't put it off. If there is no such policy, your timing should be based on circumstances right after you completed a major project, closed a major deal or signed on a new client. Again, don't wait. Keep in mind his personal life and overall mood if he's been out due to a death or illness in the family, you may want to wait until

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