Request for Increase (For employees)

Preparing the ground

A raise is not earned the day it is asked for; it is earned over the previous six to twelve months.

The right strategy begins well before the review meeting, establishing with the supervisor what specific milestones ("KPIs") define an excellent employee and deserving of a raise.

You need to proactively ask, "What would I need to accomplish this year to make my evaluation exceptional?"

Once those goals are defined (e.g., reduce customer response time by 15% or launch two new products), the employee must work obsessively to meet and exceed them.

This approach activates the brain dopamine associated with goal achievement and takes the subjectivity out of future evaluation.

When the time comes to ask for the raise, it will not be a request based on need, but the logical conclusion of a prior psychological contract.

Documentation of achievements

Memory is fragile, especially that of busy bosses. Therefore, the employee must keep a meticulous record of his or her contributions ("Brag Sheet" or list of accomplishments) throughout the year.

It is not enough to say "I have worked hard"; a business case with data must be presented.

When requesting the meeting, prepare a document that contrasts the results achieved with those expected.

Phrases such as "I managed a budget of 50,000 euros, achieving a saving of 10%" or "I mentored three new employees, reducing their learning curve by half" are irrefutable arguments.

This documentation facilitates the work of the boss, who often needs to justify the salary increase to his own superiors or to the HR department.

By giving him the "chewed up" arguments, the chances of success are exponentially increased.

The difficult conversation

The formal request should be made through a meeting scheduled specifically for this purpose, never in a hallway mugging.

It is recommended to send an email beforehand, with a positive and professional tone, requesting a space to "discuss career development and salary review," perhaps attaching the summary of accomplishments.

During the meeting, the script should begin by expressing gratitude and commitment to the company ("I love working here and want to continue to grow with the team").

Next, evidence of accomplishments and market research on fair salary is presented, and finally the request is made in a direct but polite manner: "Based on my performance and the market, I request a salary adjustment to the range of X".

Remaining calm, actively listening to the boss's response, and being prepared to negotiate alternative terms or benefits if the immediate response