With all the craziness that’s occurred this year, many people are just thankful to still have a job. The thought of asking for a raise may seem like a wild idea, with high unemployment rates throughout the world. 

However, not all companies are struggling. In fact, some have actually been doing quite well throughout 2020. Moreover, if you’ve demonstrated your value to the organization over the years, then your manager may be willing to work with you instead of let you go. After all, employee turnover costs companies money, too.

The question is, how should you broach the subject? Here are 4 tips that can help:

1. Do Your Research

Determine what the going rate for your position is in your local area, making sure to account for your years of experience on the job. If you have friends or acquaintances that work equivalent jobs at other companies, reach out to them. Armed with that knowledge, you’ll be able to…

2. Ask for a Specific Figure

Instead of asking your manager for a raise in general terms, focus on a specific figure. This shows your manager that you’ve done your research, and know what you’re worth to the company. Of course, you may want to ask for a figure that’s slightly larger than your actual goal; that way you have room to negotiate.

3. Provide Evidence that You’re Worth It

If you have outstanding metrics, have won awards with the company, or have closed big sales in the past, then bring up those accomplishments in your conversation. You want your employer to feel that they simply could not replace your value with a new hire off the street.

4. Make It as Easy as Possible

Your manager may have to jump through several hoops to get you the raise that you want. If that’s the case, you may want to ask them what the process entails. Be willing to do some of the heavy lifting, such as framing your request in a certain way, or providing key information in a particular format. If your manager knows that this will be the easiest raise request they have ever processed, then you’re much more likely to get what you want out of the negotiation.

So there you have it – four tips on how to ask for a raise during a pandemic. Of course, sometimes a raise may not be enough to keep your head above water; or it may take a while to arrive. If that’s the case, then you may need some extra support to tide you over. With that in mind, visit our blog for more helpful tips on saving money, and other interesting stuff.

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