Requesting a salary increase from your supervisor: timely strategies for success and optimal execution
Salary Bump: Navigating the Art of Asking for a Raise
Are you a hardworking employee who's been shouldering more responsibilities than your job description suggests? Or have you decided to level up your skills by participating in extra courses or even earning that long-awaited degree? Well, it might be time to ask for a raise, but there's a science to this delicate dance—and psychology plays a big role in it. Let's dive in, shall we?
Why Deserve a Pay Hike?
According to labor law expert and professor at the Higher School of Economics, Maria Buyanova, the primary reason for requesting a salary increase is the amount of actual work done compared to what's written in the job description. If you're consistently going above and beyond, or taking on riskier tasks, it's absolutely worth bringing it up.
Another common trigger? Boosting your professional prowess. This could mean picking up new skills, completing additional training, or completing your university degree while working. Progress never sleeps, after all.
Dancing Around the Topic
When it comes to asking for more moolah, a soft approach can work wonders. As Buyanova points out, employers often feel they hold the high ground, so it's essential to address the topic with a friendly and tactful touch.
Now, don't expect a jaw-dropping pay hike while staying in the same role. In Russia's current job market, a salary increase of up to 30% is realistic. And while such a raise might not sound earth-shattering, it's better than a slap in the face, right?
Wielding the Job-Change Card
Another strategic move is subtly hinting to your boss that another company has extended a better job offer, money-wise. Make it clear that you're satisfied with your position but that a decent paycheck is one box yet to be ticked. Just be mindful of how you play your hand with the boss—one false move, and you could sour your relationship with them.
When a Salary Hike Isn't the Answer
If your relationship with the boss is strained beyond repair, don't waste your time asking for a raise—it won't happen. Such situations happen when both the manager and employee see things from different perspectives. And let's be real, attempting an unfounded raise in such circumstances can make things worse.
The Economy Factor: 2% Real Wage Growth Expected in 2021
Good news for employees, as reported by "Profile": real wages in Russia are expected to grow by 2% in 2021 according to the Ministry of Economic Development. Even so, it's always worth advocating for yourself, especially if you're doing the heavy lifting for your company.
To sum up, when considering a salary increase from a professional development or market comparison perspective, it's essential to approach the conversation with tact and justice. Know your worth, acknowledge the company's willingness to invest in your development, and don't be shy about negotiating—after all, it's a two-way street.
Your personal-finance and career-development efforts may have significantly improved your professional capabilities. If you've been taking on additional responsibilities, learning new skills, or furthering your education, these achievements could justify a conversation about a salary increase. The improving economy, with a projected 2% real wage growth in 2021, suggests a favorable financial climate for salary negotiations.
