Getting a Raise in a Tough Economy The Career Exposure Network offers Tips for Getting a Raise in a Tough Economy A tough economy is challenging for all employees. Take some time to conduct a reality check of your professional life advises JillXan Donnelly, president of The Career Exposure Network. Maybe your department has been downsized. Do you have additional responsibilities? Are you doing more than one job? Be prepared to talk about your added responsibilities: How your contributions have help make your company/department successful and how your contributions make you a vital part of the organization. Outline quantifiable examples and be prepared to discuss them. Money isn't always the bottom-line either, particularly when negotiating a raise or job offer. In a tough economy, there are many other incentives that an employer can offer you that may balance out an average salary. Consider extra time off, flex-time, educational credits/refunds, and/or other additional benefits... 1. Be specific for what you are asking for, such as a 5% pay increase. 2. Frame things in the positive and stay upbeat. 3. Present value. What are you doing that's above and beyond what is expected? 4. Highlight your recent work. Bring in examples to show off. Be as specific as possible as you highlight your contributions (time savings, increased productivity, growth in sales). Be your own self-advocate. 5. Remember that an employer might be flexible about other things besides straight salary, such as more vacation time or the ability to work a few days from home. 6. Consider deferral. If the company/industry is having a tough time, ask for your raise to be considered at the end of the next quarter rather than waiting a full year for another review. Make an appointment with your manager to follow up. 7. Be grateful. In a time when most are getting pink slips, any raise is a vote of confidence in the value that you bring to the organization. Negotiations are always a compromise. Be prepared to give in a little and expect the same in return. And remember to take charge of your own career even in challenging times. Don't just sit there: Request more challenging projects that will continue to highlight your talents. And, don't be afraid to take credit for your work—tactfully market your successes directly to your managers. Additional resources to enhance your job search can be found at CareerWomen.com, DiversitySearch.com, MBACareers.com and/or CareerExposure.com

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