How to Ask for a Raise

If you work for a small to medium sized business, there may not be a defined program for annual raises. Even some large companies do not have a policy in place for annual reviews and raises, so it's up to the employee to ensure proper compensation.

When To Ask
One of the worst things you can do when asking for a raise is to ask for a raise too frequently. Unless you've done something extraordinarily spectacular that had a major impact on the company's success, then you should wait a year between each raise. Even if you believe that your previous raise wasn't sufficient, it's still appropriate to wait a year. Although persistence is typically an asset in the business world, it can do more harm than good when asking for a raise.

If you did not receive a raise the last time you requested one, then it's acceptable to ask six months later. When you take this approach, however, be sure that you have a good understanding of why you didn't receive the last raise you asked for. If it was performance-related, do not ask for another raise until you have improved your performance, and can cite three solid examples as proof. If it was related to the company's finances and their ability to increase employee compensation, simply ask them if anything has changed within the last six months.

In terms of timing, schedule a meeting with your boss about a week in advance. Make sure that he or she is not over-worked or over stress. You do not want to create more stress for your boss, and you want him or her to be in a good mood when you ask. If it seems like your boss is always very stressed and busy, then suggest a lunch meeting. A lunch meeting outside of the office will ensure that there are no interruptions from co-workers, and your boss will be more focused on what you have to say.