Friday, July 26, 2013

How to Ask for a Raise After Your Probation

So, you've made it through your probationary period at your new job, and you've deemed it time to ask for a raise. You've proven that you are a viable asset to the company and are going to be there for the long haul, so why not? The trick, however, is to tread lightly, as asking for more money in a clumsy, ham-handed manner can backfire on you and negate any goodwill you have thus far accrued.

Suggestions

  1. Review your company's policies regarding raises to see if it's feasible to even ask for one. For instance, you may not be eligible for another month as per company policy. This may be in the fine print of your new-hire paperwork, or you may have to chat with your coworkers to learn just what the status quo is. Be careful if you opt for the latter, though, as other, more-tenured employees may take umbrage to your asking for more money when they feel that they deserve it first.
  2. Approach your boss and set up a review if she hasn't done so already. The end of probation is an appropriate time for this. Let her know that you'd like to go over some things, ask questions and obtain feedback. Avoid bluntly stating something to the effect of "Let's talk money!".
  3. Ask for the raise well into the conversation, preferably after a series of positive statements. Whatever you do, don't open the talk with the money question. Allow good rapport to be built. Show your boss that you genuinely would like to know how you've been doing and how to get better. After either a positive statement or the proverbial "any questions?" try something like, "So, I'm wondering -- will I get a bump in pay now that I'm officially a part of the team?" or, "Will my pay now reflect that I'm no longer on probation as well?" would work, too.

Tip

  • Remain confident if your boss is a tad bit acerbic and likes to avoid compliments. You may lose your nerve to ask, given that there's no obvious opportunity in the conversation. Take in his constructive criticism with your head held high, and still ask for that raise at the end. Simply state the same questions as listed in Step 3.

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