The Do's and Don'ts When Asking for a Raise

Money makes the world go around. That is the real truth. As much as I love my career, I don’t just get up each morning, drive through dense traffic, and sit in my office all day just for the sheer fun of it. I’ve got bills to pay, and a life to live, and of course, I need money to do that.

Now, that being said, initially, it was my goal to earn money as I continue to advance in my career. Overtime, I realized that money can’t just be the sole motivator when taking a job, and in my experience, I also had to accept the fact that even a higher salary meant nothing if I didn’t feel fulfilled in my job.

Back in June 2019, I lost my job. Rather than rush for employment, I decided to take the time off to weigh my options and focus on other projects. I was able to do this because of the severance pay and a healthy bank account balance. This time gave me space to properly vet job offers, determining the best option for me. My searching paid off, as I landed a job in August, a position that aligned with my career goals and qualities.

However, this new job came at a cost—literally—I took a significant pay cut.

When the time is right, I may ask for a pay raise, but I also know that for many employees, asking for a pay raise brings feelings of confusion and anxiety due to the sheer lack of knowledge as to how to do so.

So, here are the do’s and don’ts of asking for a raise: