10 Foolproof Ways to Get a Raise

By WORKS by Nicole Williams, provided by DivineCaroline.com

If you want a raise, you’ve got to earn it. These ten tricks can get you what you want.

Trick 1: Be the go-to girl
Every time someone new depends on you, your “irreplaceability” factor increases. Know what your colleagues have coming up—in or outside of work—and figure out how you can be of help to them. People will be just as thankful that you’ve recommended the perfect restaurant for their friend’s birthday party as they are when you offer to look over the report they’re working on.

Trick 2: Build a track record
If you haven’t been at your company long enough to ask for a raise, you’ve got to demonstrate your value. The only person who knows (and remembers) exactly what you contribute day in and day out is you—so keep a list of all of your successes and accomplishments. As soon as time is on your side, you’ll have your argument ready to present.

Trick 3: Find feedback
Don’t wait for review time to find out what your supervisor thinks your weaknesses are. Be proactive and ask. She’ll appreciate your willingness to learn and be thankful she didn’t have to be the one to bring it up.

Trick 4: Better yourself
Once you’re clued in to your perceived weaknesses, work on improving them immediately. Get training, rehearse, read books—do whatever it takes to get better at the skills you’re lacking. You’ll be far better off than your competitor who tries to cover them up.

Trick 5: Learn a new skill
In addition to getting better at what you already do, learning a new skill is the fastest way to increase your value and up your chances of a raise. Figure out what your colleagues one or two levels above you know that you don’t, and get on it. Even if you have to spend a little money on the side to get the knowledge you need, it’s an investment that is likely to pay for itself sooner than later.