Could you help me with some advice on how to hint to my manager in a somewhat humorous but detailed way, that I want a raise?
He's not very fond of such conversations and tries to avoid them.
Thanks in advance.

  • I would follow Suzanne's advice. Your feeling that you are underpaid and your being prepared to show that you are being paid below market are two... different things. Look at it unemotionally and even discuss with a friend or family member.
    The second aspect to consider is the quality and quantity of your work. You are in a strong position when you are the 'go to' person for difficult projects that need to get done. And, of course, go through this process if you like the company and want to stay.
    There is no one approach to handle such issues and depends on what you or your boss are comfortable with. You could ask to setup an appointment with your boss to discuss your career and compensation. He may have HR join in the conversation. All this assumes they like your work and do not want to lose you. Be yourself and respectful. I was successful in getting 10-30% raises in two such instances. Good luck.
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  • The simple answer is, are you productive that your productivity can be seen and felt? If not, damp the idea of a salary increase. I have one thing I... call my motto, which is "Let results speak for me, not me to speak". By this I mean the output of my work should speak for me. Let me give an example of what transpired is at one I was involved in a project. Three of us were engaged in this project but I was the one who did the most difficult part, yet the rate was the same. The boss new that the part I did was difficult so one time he tried to have the task rotational for the three of us. My two colleagues later refused to take up that task so I continued. The first payment was due for us to get paid and the boss called me first. He told me he wouldn't be able to meet the project deadline without me because the task I was doing was core to the project deadline which my colleagues refused to take up. He thanked me because we were on schedule and encouraged me to continue that way. What surprised me was he double my pay, which thing I didn't ask for but just came out of me being much more productive.

    All in all, never ask for a salary increase if you aren't productive. But if your productivity can speak for itself, then you'll be rewarded for it.
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  • I’ve always wondered. Why do many feel that you’re being “ungrateful” or “disrespectful” to simply ask that you be paid what you believe you’re worth?... Ask yourself how much of an increase in salary you want, how much an hour. Then ask and if they don’t want to discuss it or make you feel a type of way about it. It’s time to look for a new job that will pay you, your value. Too many of us compromise our worth to prevent appearing confrontational. But if you’re coming from a place of self worth and not entitled arrogance, they should be able to respect that and be honest. Good luck to you.  more

  • Any upward review in salaries depends on the way the business is performing . It also depends on the department that you are in. The standard measure... of productivity in departments like the sales department are so clear that heads of such departments have never made it difficult for the sales team to achieve salary reviews. If you are in a department that deals with business growth by volumes, you can easily stand a chance in getting a raise whenever you ask for it because those in sales department work on targets, their performance can easily be measured such that when the targets are exceeded, it becomes so easy to negotiate for a salary increase. If you are in a department that deals with reporting and attending where productivity can not be easily measured, you need to be careful when pushing for salary review. You need to be sure that the business performance both in volumes and margins is at its peak before you ask otherwise you will find yourself stepping on toes. more

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  • Hey [Manager's Name], I checked my bank account this morning and even it sighed. I think it's trying to tell us something... like maybe it's time for... a little salary upgrade? 😅 Just saying—my performance and inflation have both gone up! more

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  • When I was younger, it was a scary prospect -- approaching my boss about money. Now that I'm an older adult, I understand how many managers go out of... their way to avoid talk about salary. One of the reasons might be -- some employees ask for a raise without making a case for themselves. It's important to inventory your own job performance -- for instance, you may have gotten an excellent annual review recently. Research your position in the local job market to find out what your colleagues are being paid -- more than you? Provide evidence - documentation that supports your very sincere request for a raise. Value your work - no hinting and no humor - your salary is a serious matter.  more

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  • If he's trying to avoid conversations like this, you need to schedule a meeting with him so you can sit down and talk without him getting distracted... elsewhere. That way he will understand your serious about your words. Then just let him know your worth, be forward and assertive. Ask. That's what I would find respectful and respect as a Manager myself.  more

  • Hi [Manager's Name],

    I hope this note finds you in good spirits and low inbox stress.

    As I've been reviewing my own Q2 life goals — you know, like... eating fewer takeout meals and maybe one day buying avocados without guilt — I realized it's time for an honest check-in about my role, contributions, and (gulp) compensation.

    Now, I know talking about raises is as awkward as running into someone in the hallway... and then realizing you're both walking in the same direction for 5 more steps. 😅
    But here's the truth: I've taken on [briefly list 2-3 accomplishments or increased responsibilities], and I feel like it's a good time to talk about how my compensation reflects that growth.

    Let me know if we can schedule a time to talk. I promise to keep the charts to a minimum and the awkward eye contact to a maximum.

    Thanks as always,
    [Your Name]
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  • Be prepared to show how you are contributing to the company - satisfied customers, money saved, sales made, etc. Look at other companies in your... industry and what they pay for someone in your position. more

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  • If you're doing your job and doing it well, be jovial in your convo about it the next time that it feels proper... Timing is the crucial part for you... though, how are you with social cues... Also never say/do more than the outcome you prepared for, but definitely don't kiss ass just for a job that would have no problem replacing you more

  • Always be the best at what you do and always be a leader.. now you are valuable.
    Good luck 😎

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