We have started a new segment allowing potential candidates to ask questions that will be answered directly by our CEO, Darcy Swift. February’s question is: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
QUESTION: What is the best way to professionally ask for a raise? I have been with my office for 5 years and have not received an increase since my first year. I know I deserve it, but I don’t want to come off unprofessional or desperate to our new manager. <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n ANSWER:<\/strong> If you have been at your place of employment for several years without an increase, there is most definitely a professional way to ask for a raise without sounding desperate. There is nothing wrong with reminding your manager of your contribution to the company and confidently requesting compensation adjustments to reflect your value and worth due to the work you provide. Plan what you want to say ahead of time and bring out points that highlight your work. What you want to look out for is starting the conversation in a negative tone. The conversation is about you as an asset, not about someone else that got a raise before you or a manager that overlooked you. Highlighting your assets or contributions may show the monetary value in your long-term commitment and loyalty. Talking about anything else will put a spotlight on the wrong things and make you look unprofessional. <\/p>\n\n\n\n