How to Negotiate Your Next Raise... Politely!

Business etiquette is more important than ever, especially when approaching a difficult situation like negotiating a raise. While addressing the topic can be an awkward and dreaded task, with careful thought and consideration you’ll successfully create a productive conversation. Try following these seven business etiquette tips to help negotiate your next pay raise… Go on, you deserve it! 

Choose the right time:
Timing is everything! Make sure not to ask your manager to sit down if there is an issue going on at work, even if completely unrelated to you. Try asking your boss to meet with you at the end of a week when stress levels are lower. Schedule an appointment ahead of time so you don’t catch them off guard. Either email or say “Could you please spare a few minutes to sit down at the end of the day today?” If they ask what it’s about, simply reply “I wanted to discuss a few thoughts I had about my position." Leave it vague until you’re face to face. Never email your request for a raise. 

Set the stage:
Offer to bring coffee or tea. This will create a less aggressive setting from the start of the meeting. Refreshments help calm initial discomfort and provides a more comfortable discussion platform. Make sure you are in a private setting where you can have their undivided attention and can speak freely.

Initiate conversation and take control:
If you see your boss every day, there is no need for small talk, however if you only work with him or her periodically, starting the conversation with friendly chatter increases the perception of likability. Make sure that you are the first to open the discussion regarding your raise and why you wanted to sit down. If you are controlling the conversation, you’re more likely to succeed.

Know your worth, come prepared and speak confidently:
Do your research: what do other competitive companies pay similar roles? If your salary is not competitive, this is good leverage to use. Make a list of all your accomplishments in your position and memorize them so you can easily verbalize why you deserve a salary and/or promotion. Be confident in stating your value to the company i.e. “While in my current role, sales have seen a 20% increase.” Approach the meeting with confidence. You are good and you know it, and that’s why you’re there! 

Be positive:
Successful negotiators are optimists. Start sentences with, “I’ve learned so much during my position and I love feeling both challenged and rewarded” before you dive into asking for a raise. If the conversation somehow turns negative, try to stay positive i.e. “I was not aware, but I appreciate constructive feedback.”

Be conscious of your body language: 
Be careful not to cross your arms, this could be taken as a sign of being angry, uninterested or unreceptive. Good eye contact is crucial. If you look away during the discussion, you may be perceived as submissive and insecure in your request.

Be grateful:
Be sure to tell your manager you are grateful for the opportunity to be considered for a raise….even if it’s long overdue. If they say they are unable to give you a raise at this time, try negotiating other benefits or a title change. If you don’t have success, ask about the next date which you can be reevaluated for a raise. They’ll see your persistence and determination and will admire that you have a successful goal in mind.

--Myka Meier, Etiquette Expert