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October 4, 2011
Want that Raise?
 Statistics show women ask for a raise less often than men. And when we get one, it's a lot smaller: 2 percent vs. 21 percent, according to recent data from Catalyst.
It's the mantra at PINK: "Ask for what you want. If you don't ask, you don't get." We asked women who successfully got raises – even in this economy – for their best advice:
"Be prepared for success, but be open to constructive feedback and further discussion," says Susan Hitchcock, a women's leadership consultant who is on the Turknett Leadership Group advisory board.
“Try to ask for a raise when the company is starting its yearly budgeting process instead of the end of the year,” says Angela Quiles of labor and employment law firm Ford & Harrison LLP. “Remember to be confident in yourself and your abilities – if you want your employer to believe in you, believe in yourself first.”
Buena Vista Lyons, partner at Ford & Harrison LLP, suggests being realistic about the economic conditions facing your company. However, she adds that “the market determines your worth, not your current employer.” She suggests seeking out information about your field, like the average pay scale and different components of compensation.
Want more?
Money Watch offers tips like having a specific number in mind and why it’s justified. Experts suggest waiting to ask when your boss is in a good mood, being open to more responsibility and not giving an ultimatum.
Others emphasize the importance of maintaining a non-combative tone – there’s a way to sound confident without coming off as demanding.
Bonus PINK Link: Find out 27 ways to get a raise in our online exclusive.
By Caroline Cox
"Ask for what you want and be prepared to get it!” Maya Angelou
*Supporting images from FreeDigitalPhotos.net, digitalart and Stuart Miles
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