Know what you are worth to the company

• You will be paid what you are worth, no matter what. If you do not do the work, don't expect your employer to be eager to give you a raise. If you make a quality contribution, your request is more likely to be accepted. If you are working above your current pay level and doing good work you should be asking for a raise. If you haven't received a pay raise in quite some time then there could be a legitimate need for one. Expect to discuss your performance with your boss while the negotiations are going on. There is always room for improvement.
  
  

Get the facts

• Get your facts straight before you ask for your raise. You may just get what you are asking for, or you may not. You may even find yourself kicked out on your tail if you are not careful. Know what you are worth in your current duties and also know the current going rate for workers in your job market. You are selling yourself when you ask for a raise, so you must know exactly what you are worth, even if it means biting the bullet and accepting less than you expected. You can always try harder next time.
  
  

Use good timing

• Don't ask for a raise when the company is in a downward spiral. If the money is simply not there, you won't get it anyway, so save your breath. Wait until things are looking good for the company and everyone is happy. Your request will get more notice if your timing is right. If you get a performance review that is in the cellar you cannot expect to get a raise. Find out from your fellow employees and your boss just how valuable you are to the company.
  
  

Expect some criticism from your boss

• Most bosses may be a bit annoyed when you ask for a raise and you can expect a bit of sarcasm and striking back from your boss. Giving a raise means more money out of the company's pockets, which they won't give up easily. Be prepared for a compromise and work with it. That is the best way to maintain the professional relationship.
  
  

Don't expect an immediate answer

• Give your boss time to think about it. You are unlikely to get an answer right then and there, so be very polite and make your visit to the boss's office as short and friendly as possible. If your boss does agree to your raise show your appreciation but don't get too mushy with it. Set yourself to the goal of proving to your boss that this was the correct decision. Do your work well and make a good impression. It's never too soon to start working toward the next raise.
  
  

Tell what you have done for the company

• Be specific about what you would like to get as a raise. Just saying you need a raise is not enough. You must request the amount of the increase and the kind of perks you want, including vacations. Speak your mind with confidence and know what you want. It is also a good idea to give out some facts about your career that will prove important to your case. Show what you have done in the past to help the company, but don't exaggerate.