Asking For A Raise

Question: I took your advice and made my case for a raise. I was turned down. I'd like to know what my options are now.

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: July 9, 2008 - 12:26 PM

Question: I took your advice and made my case for a raise. I was turned down. My boss thinks my salary is fair. I'd like to know what my options are now. Even though they didn't give me a raise they told me they can't afford to let me go!

Matt: This is a tough pill to swallow for many. You do the job asked, exceed expectations, save the company money or develop a new product or idea that helps them attract new business or make more money, but aren't rewarded financially.

In this case, it may be that the company has budgeted your position in at an annual salary, and unfortunately, while they value you and acknowledge your contributions, are not going to budge because it isn't in the budget. Managers and business owners are focused on the bottom line - it's the sad reality of how business operates. The easy thing to say is to keep working hard and hope for the best, but that only lasts so long. If it continues to bother you, document your successes and accomplishments, and put together a plan to start looking for a new job. This company may not be able to pay you what you feel you are worth, but another company might. If you have another job offer lined up you have leverage and options.

However, when asking for a raise, timing is also a factor. If the company has struggled financially, even your individual successes won't garner a raise. If there have been layoffs, cuts or hiring freezes, this can affect your personal situation. If the company loses a key account or client, employees often feel the trickle-down effects.

If the company can't afford a salary increase consider asking for an incentive-based program where you are rewarded for meeting certain department or financial goals. Or put together a plan to ask for a one-time bonus for recent accomplishments. If the company can't reward you financially, ask for other soft benefits like extra vacation time or paid time off.

It may take a while to get these ideas across, but it's a start.

Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, and has nine years of experience reporting on the employment industry. The first Sunday of each month this column will answer readers' questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.

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