Question:

It is always uncomfortable asking for a raise. How do I position this discussion so I am perceived positively?

Tero says:

Many are curious about etiquette surrounding this, and how to open this discussion in a polished way.

First, examine your performance from your employer's standpoint as well as your own. We tend to overestimate our own importance and view expected performance as something greater. Could you be at risk of that? If so a discussion around performance may be what you would be best focusing on.

Excellent performance is expected once we have learned the necessary skills to do our job. Talk to your manager and discuss actual behaviors, actions and the results of your work to highlight contributions. Invite feedback about what behaviors and successful results may lead to a raise.

Before asking for a raise, do some homework. Examine all aspects of your compensation.

Take stock of the perks and benefits your employer is providing to see the "hidden" value attached to your paycheck already. This way, if you do decide to ask for a raise, you will be approaching it from a standpoint of recognition of current compensation while expressing a desire to excel in your work even further.

This is a more appropriate approach than one that may communicate you simply feel entitled to a raise.

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