7 Best Reasons to Ask for a Raise

If you’re thinking of asking for a raise, you’re not alone! In fact, it’s something that many people contemplate at some point in their careers—and, if you really deserve a raise, why not go for it and get more money?

We understand how much you’re dreading having a sit-down with the boss to ask for a raise. What if they say no? Laugh at you? Give you a raise that’s way too small? Or even worse, put you on the spot and ask you why you think you deserve a pay raise?

All these are valid concerns, but if done correctly – and armed with the right ammunition – asking for a raise doesn’t have to be a scary proposition. In fact, if you do it at the right time, it can be a very positive experience.

This post will outline some of the best reasons why you should ask for a raise. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines. Every situation is different, and you should always consult with your boss before asking for a raise.

Top Reasons to Ask for a Raise

According to recent studies, only about 37% of employees have the confidence to ask for a raise. And of this number, only a few of them actually get the pay raise. This is shocking! Even more, surprising is the fact that  9 in every 10 managers will say no or try to negotiate for a later increase.

However, this should not deter you because we have unlocked the secrets of making your pay raise request successful. The first step is knowing when to ask for the raise. Timing is everything!

Here are the top instances when you should jump at the opportunity. 

#1 You’ve been working hard and have achieved great results

This is the number one reason why you should ask your boss for a raise. You’ve busted your butt day in and day out, gone the extra mile for your boss, and gone above and beyond what you’re being paid for. Why shouldn’t you get rewarded for all of your hard work with a salary raise?

If you’ve been working for your company for a while and have produced results that make it clear that you deserve more money, you should indeed ask for that raise! Whether you’ve increased sales numbers, brought in new clients, or completed a great project that your boss can’t stop raving about…just go for it! Your market value is much higher than your current salary

Keep in mind that it’s not just the company that should benefit from your hard work— you should too!

#2 You’ve taken on additional responsibilities without being asked

Have you recently taken on new job responsibilities for which the company would normally pay an extra salary? Maybe you’ve even gotten a new job title. If so, then it’s time to sit down with the boss and ask for a raise. In a recent study, 57% of employees felt that they deserved more by taking on new responsibilities and were bold enough to ask for a raise. 

When you take on additional tasks or responsibilities, it shows your boss that you’re capable of a lot, and they will value you more. So, don’t be afraid to ask for an additional salary, especially if you have been doing all these tasks ‘voluntarily’ -your boss should definitely appreciate your initiative. 

#3 You’re always putting in extra hours, even when you’re not officially on duty

This is another excellent reason to ask for a raise. Although some companies are trying to reduce unnecessary overtime, it is still a reality for many employees. So, if you’re regularly staying late or coming in on the weekends, then you deserve compensation. 

Let’s be honest: a lot of companies are lenient when it comes to working overtime. However, they really appreciate employees who demonstrate how much they value their jobs. 

If your boss sees that you’re always willing to go the extra mile, then they’ll be more than happy to give you a little extra cash for your efforts! Start this conversation with them and see where it goes– it may just lead to a pay raise.

4# You’ve consistently received positive feedback from your boss and colleagues

If your boss and colleagues have constantly been raving about your work ethic and contributions to the company, consider asking for a raise. Even though many companies rarely give raises based on feedback from other employees, it definitely still happens.

After all: you deserve it, and your work ethic is something to be emulated. So, no need to be shy— go ahead and ask for that raise. I you receive positive feedback, be confident in yourself and your abilities, and don’t let your humility get in the way of fair compensation.

5# You’re always up for new challenges and willing to take on more work

If you’re never scared of taking on new challenges and learning new things, it’s time to ask for a raise!  

Instead of being comfortable with doing ‘the same old routine’ or not working hard enough to be promoted to a higher position, why not do something about it?!!

Your boss will definitely notice your initiative and willingness to take on new projects, and this will most likely lead to an increase in salary. Just remember: it’s absolutely OK to ask for a raise if you’ve been doing exceptional work.

6# You’re a team player and contribute to a positive work environment

Employers love employees who go the extra mile, care about their co-workers, have a positive attitude, and contribute to a positive work environment. If you feel that you are always doing your job to the best of your abilities. Not because you feel like you have to, but because it’s part of who you are as a co-worker and person, you should ask for your desired compensation.  

You don’t even necessarily have to be the top performer at the company, but making a positive impact on your company culture should pay off in the end. Make sure to talk to your boss and see what they say- Your efforts should definitely not go unnoticed!

7# Your boss has mentioned that they’re impressed with your work ethic and would be willing to give you a raise

If your boss has already brought up the subject of you getting a raise, then it’s definitely time to take the conversation to the next level and make them actually consider it. Don’t always leave the initiative up to your employer. Take charge and prompt them to have the conversation!

Do some salary research on your type of role to help determine the salary increase you are seeking.

Go Get That Pay Raise!

Even though asking for a raise is a scary conversation, there’s nothing wrong with being upfront and honest about what you’re looking for. If your boss is happy with the work that you’ve been putting in, then they’ll probably be more than willing to give you a pay increase! 

Here’s the trick, though: you shouldn’t ask for a raise without a concrete reason. You should try and make a case for yourself regarding why you deserve it. Be specific and provide your boss with relevant details that will increase your chances of getting that raise.

Don’t risk losing out on potential income by being passive. Take action now that you know the best reasons to ask for a raise.

If you’re worried about sounding greedy, check out this post next: How to Ask for a Raise Without Sounding Greedy

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