How to Ask for a Raise

Whether you've been at your job for six months, or six years, asking for a raise is rarely easy. For some, it can be slightly uncomfortable. For others, it can be downright stressful. Below are five tips for asking for a raise.

Share your goals. It may be smart to start with your overall professional goals to remind your superior of your drive and focus, and talk about the future.

List recent accomplishments. If you've recently had a big win or shown successful progress, here's a good time to gently mention it. This is also a good time to ask for feedback on your performance.

Focus on why you deserve a raise. Never go in explaining why you need a raise; financial troubles, while stressful, are not your boss's problem or area of focus.  

Practice your pitch and anticipate questions. Practice your pitch to yourself or a friend or family member, asking them to ask any potential questions they could see arising from your pitch.

Be ready for no. If your request is turned down, use the dismissal as an opportunity to ask when your boss may be willing to reconsider, i.e., in six months or a year, or if there's something you could improve that may inspire a raise in the future.