How to Ask for a Raise When You Are Underpaid

Introduction

When it comes to earning a livable wage, one of the most important steps is to ensure that you are paid fairly for the work you do. Unfortunately, many people find themselves in a situation where they are being “underpaid”—that is, they are making less than the market rate for their job or what could reasonably be expected for their position. If you find yourself in this situation, there are steps you can take to ask for a raise and get the pay you deserve.

Research the Market

The first step in asking for a raise is to research the market rate for similar positions. Knowing the average salary for a job can help you determine whether you are indeed underpaid and if you have a strong case for requesting an increase in pay. According to a study from the Harvard Business Review, “It’s important to know the market value of your skills and experience so you can make sure you’re being compensated appropriately.”

There are many resources available for finding out the market rate for a given position. Websites such as Glassdoor, PayScale, and Salary.com offer detailed information on salaries for various roles. Additionally, professional organizations and industry associations often publish salary surveys which can provide additional insight into the market rate for a job.

Prepare Your Argument

Once you have a good idea of the market rate for your position, it’s time to start preparing your argument for why you deserve a raise. It’s important to think about why you believe you should receive an increase in pay, and to come up with examples of how you have contributed to the organization. Have you taken on additional responsibility? Have you gone above and beyond in your role? These are all things you should consider when making your case.

“Be prepared to explain why you think you deserve a raise and what value you bring to the company,” advises career coach Marla Gottschalk. “Focus on any successes you may have had and the contributions you have made to the organization.”

Ask for an Appointment

Once you’ve done your research and prepared your argument, it’s time to schedule a meeting with your manager to discuss your request for a raise. This can be a nerve-wracking experience, so it’s important to practice beforehand. Rehearse your pitch and think about any potential questions or objections your manager might have. You want to make sure you’re coming across as confident and well-prepared.

Make Your Pitch

When it comes time to make your pitch, be sure to keep your focus on why you deserve a raise. Explain the reasons why you believe you should be paid more, and provide evidence to support your request. For example, you could cite specific accomplishments or projects where you went above and beyond. Additionally, you could reference the market rate for similar positions to show that you are not being adequately compensated.

“You need to be able to articulate why you think you deserve more money,” says Gottschalk. “Be clear and concise in your arguments and don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself.”

Negotiate

Once you’ve made your pitch, it’s time to negotiate. Be prepared to compromise, as your manager may not be willing to give you the exact amount you requested. However, it’s important to stay positive and remain confident in your ability to negotiate. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make your case. Remember, you are the only one who can advocate for yourself.

Follow Up

After the meeting, it’s important to follow up with your manager to make sure your request is being considered. Reach out to them periodically to check in and see if there has been any progress. Additionally, make sure to document any agreements that were made during the negotiation process. This will help ensure that you are getting the pay increase you deserve.

Look for Other Opportunities

Finally, if your request for a raise is denied or if you are unable to negotiate a satisfactory salary, it may be time to look for other opportunities. Consider alternate ways to increase your income, such as taking on freelance projects or pursuing additional certifications or education. Determining what will work best for you and your current situation is key.

Conclusion

Asking for a raise when you are underpaid can be a daunting task. However, by doing your research, preparing your argument, and staying confident in your negotiations, you can make your case and get the compensation you deserve. Research the market rate for your position, rehearse your pitch, and be prepared to compromise. Most importantly, remember that you are the only one who can advocate for yourself.