Before you get too deep into the celebration of the social and economic achievements of the American worker, take a few minutes this Labor Day to ponder these five tips for raising your own economic status, from Salary.com’s Bill Coleman.
– Vicky Uhland, special to
The Denver Post
Act like you’re Jerry Maguire. If you’re scared of talking about money or job performance, make it less personal. Pretend you’re an agent negotiating the salary for a client.
Know your worth. Check out classified ads, annual salary surveys in industry publications, job boards and salary websites to figure out how much money your career counterparts are making. Your boss will appreciate hard data more than emotional pleas such as: “If I don’t get a raise, I won’t be able to buy a new Lexus.”
Know your value. No matter how tight your company’s finances may be, most bosses will take care of their top performers.
Be a line item. Even if your boss wants to give you a raise, the accountants may not. Bring up your financial goals for 2006 in mid- to late October – before next year’s budget is finalized.
Get creative. Maybe there’s no money for a raise, but your boss could take funds from another budget for a retention or performance bonus. Or you could ask for a shorter workweek, more vacation time or flex time.
