Boost / Increase you PAY

Are you getting a raw deal on your salary? Here are some smart tips to ask for more without rocking the boat.

According to research of "The Pay Raise Coach", 'what have you done for me lately?' is the operative question to ask before seeking a pay rise. Everyone wants more money but seeking a raise doesn't assure getting one. Bosses have short memories. So at pay raise time, it is paramount to bring all your accomplishments to the boss' attention. The following five tips will dramatically increase the chances of winning a satisfactory and successful raise:

1) Maintain a list of accomplishments since your last pay increase. Neatly type the list in a bullet format and use metrics to demonstrate the degree of your success: Instead of saying, 'I learnt how to run the high-speed press', say, 'I have increased output of widgets by 108% while reducing production time by 16%.

2) Well in advance before asking for a raise, assist co-workers and your boss by helping with their excess projects. Learning various roles increases your value to the company, as well as your value directly to the boss. He certainly won't want the work you're now doing given back to him,

3) Never, ever tell anyone connected with your firm; even your closest work friends that you intend to seek a raise. People talk and that talk can hurt your pay raise chances. Keep mum.

4) Never give personal excuses for securing a raise. Excuses like, everyone else is paid more or my car is old and in need of repairs are not legitimate corporate reasons to give you a raise. Negotiate based on contributions to the job and you'll get respect and more money.

5) Typically, the best way to get the largest jump in salary is by going elsewhere, where accomplishments and achievements are still of utmost importance. These qualities may secure as much as 30% increase at a new firm, where new employee's skills may be more appreciated than at previous jobs. The new firm sees strong accomplishments and presence in an interview in stark comparison to what they don't have.