The economy is struggling, jobs are being cut, and employees are laying low, trying not to draw attention to themselves. You may think asking for a raise is out of the question. Maybe not. As long as you're prepared. CnnMoney.com has 5 things to consider before asking for a raise:
- Don't wait for a rebound in the economy. Instead make your move when you can prove that you're deserving with concrete examples of accomplishments.
- Timing is important. Most companies have a budgeting cycle, so come in before, not after the company has made raise decisions.
- Prepare your case. Give the company your best arguments, such as how hard you've worked and what you've accomplished.
- Ask for help, not money. Say to your boss, "I'd really appreciate your guidance on what I need to do to get a raise." That way he's more likely to become your advocate.
- Live to fight another day. Let's face it, you may get turned down for that raise. If you do, don't start a confrontation, or threaten to leave. Unless of course if have a place to go. Keep it friendly. Your turn may come the next time around.
In an employment related story, a recent poll found that as the job market begins to loosen up, companies might be surprised by an announcement from employees they haven't heard in a while... "I quit."
The poll by human resources consultant Right Management found that 60 percent of workers said they intended to leave their jobs when the economy got better.
