You’ve decided to ask for a raise, but how do you go about that? Asking for a raise can be a daunting task. My philosophy is you don’t know until you ask. You can sit down with your practice manager or owner and ask for one. I recommend that you come prepared with reasons as to why you feel you deserve a raise. Maybe you have taken on some additional work, or maybe you have earned some continuing education certificates.
The best time to ask for a raise is during a yearly review. If your practice does not offer yearly reviews, then ask for one. This review is when you sit with your manager to review your performance and annual goals and reflect on the year at the practice. In theory, your practice should also ask what they can do for you. Ensure you are prepared with why a raise should be on the table. Remember that timing is also crucial. If your manager seems to be stressed, wait a week and evaluate them then. The review is also a time to be realistic about your expectations and what you plan to ask for. Ask your manager or practice owner at the beginning of the review if we can spend some time during my performance review to discuss my compensation.
Let’s gather information. What additional work have you taken on, and how is this beneficial to the practice? What certificates have you earned, and how are they useful to the practice? Research salary information for your area. Be ready for questions from your practice manager regarding this information. Be open to negotiations, they may have a different idea for the amount than you.
If your practice manager or practice owner says no, be prepared with questions of your own. They may say no, and that can happen. If they do say no, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Are there skills or achievements you’d like to see from me before increasing my compensation? Are you satisfied with my performance overall?
Regardless of the outcome, make sure to thank your practice manager or practice owner for their time. If they gave you constructive criticism, then work towards those goals and be open to meeting with them again to revisit a raise. Remember to advocate for yourself.
