Unless you intend to leave your current job, you will need to request a pay raise from your employer since, besides the occasional bonus and across-the-board raises, there will be no other way to make more money. But asking for a raise is nerve-racking for most of us and pushes us out of our comfort zones. Still, it is important; for one thing, the mere fact that you are considering asking for a raise implies that you feel undervalued and inadequately compensated for the work you do.
The Ramadan period may be an ideal time to ask for a raise for many; possibly because it is a time for self-reflection and self-examination so if you are amongst those who are considering asking for a raise this Ramadan, Keep reading as we have compiled a list of important tips to help you ask for a raise (and get it).
Doing adequate research involves finding information, details, and facts you may find useful as related to your request for a raise. To do this
If you follow these steps, you would have done adequate research and have enough information to work with to help you navigate asking for a raise so that nothing will take you by surprise.
Truly, you shouldn't have to do this to get paid the amount you deserve but the reality is different and your employer or supervisor has to notice the work you are doing and the difference you are making in the company. Without that, your request may be rejected.
Consider commanding the tasks and responsibilities in your current role in the nicest way possible. You don't want to irritate your co-workers. Then begin to solve the problems that your soon-to-be self would be working on. Furthermore, do not be afraid to seek guidance and ask questions from experienced people.
Just ensure that you document the details of these responsibilities and accomplishment(s) as you will be referencing them in your conversation about a raise which wouldn't just be about informing your employer or supervisor about your broad roles but the precise and strategic ones that are sure to be impressive.
It would be considered unprofessional to request a raise at just any time. Ideally, you must set a meeting with your supervisor, manager, or employer.
Now because it is Ramadan, things could get a little trickier. Booking a meeting between Iftar and Taraweeh prayers may be ideal during this period, but you must confirm that it is also a perfect time for the person with whom you will be having a discussion. If you have to set this meeting up by sending an email to the employer, you could say something along the lines of “I would like to have a brief meeting to discuss and review my compensation. Please let me know if X time is right for you."
Ensure that you approach asking for a raise with the same level of seriousness and preparation you would have for a job interview or an important presentation. Dress formally even if your workplace has a relaxed dress code.
The day to have your meeting is drawing closer and things are getting a little nerve-racking for you. Know that the feeling of anxiety and nervousness that you may be experiencing is normal. Many people never entertain the idea of requesting a raise. Others do never work up the courage to set up a meeting. So, give yourself some accolades. Breathe and tell yourself you have come a long way and cannot afford to chicken out.
Additionally, get a script and practice your dialogue in addition to answers to the questions your employer might ask you. As you practice, start with an opener.
A good opener would be:
“Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. In my current role, I look forward to working towards the company goals and growing my personal responsibilities. To this end, I’d like to discuss my salary.”
If your employer is open to the conversation from there, proceed with specifics. Tell them the increase in salary figure you’d like, cite the research you’ve done to arrive at that number, and close with examples of your work that justify a raise. Ensure you include details that make your justification clear.
An example is:
“In the last few weeks, I planned and then closed the deal with X which was a significant win as it increased lead generation by 10%. In addition, I have consistently met and exceeded my sales quota."
When the day of the meeting finally comes, make sure you are as calm as possible. You could write a few points on a tiny piece of paper to help you remember everything you have written.
Asking for a pay raise may be stressful but with proper reflection, research, and preparation, you will discover the "hurdles" are not insurmountable. However, you must know that you could do everything correctly and still be refused a raise by your employer. In which case you must not beat yourself up but instead re-strategize. If your employer tells you that they cannot provide a pay raise currently, ask what you need to do to make yourself eligible as soon as pay raises are available and keep things moving. If you keep performing exceptionally well, in no time, you will get the raise you deserve.
