How to Ask for a Raise

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how to ask for a raise

Have you even wondered if public speaking skills can be used when asking for a raise?

They can! Read on to learn the best way to ask for a raise using simple tips and techniques.

When you are planning to ask for a raise, the most important thing to rehearse is not what you think.

You are probably obsessing over talking numbers with your boss, but how you begin the conversion and establish your case is far more important – and often less stressful to prepare for! So if you’re looking for what to say when asking for a raise at work, then follow these steps closely.

LEAD WITH WHAT’S INTERESTING

I am a passionate producer and I’m often asking for funding for development deals from places like Comedy Central, HBO and Netflix. I always lead with what’s amazing.

For example: “I know this film is going to be a hit, and the talent we’ve attached will ensure it. I’m also fully committed to getting it into theatres around the country because I know that distribution is key. And I can see us together on the red carpet when that happens.” I paint the picture of success.

Then I need to say something a little risky because I’m required by the FTC to make it clear that most investors never get paid back. I lay it out on the table, speak the truth, and I state: “I’m also willing to double down if you are. This movie is going to be a worthwhile investment, and the party on opening night where you get to hang with Kate Winslet is going to be epic.”

I raised $25,000 in one meeting because I led with what’s interesting and emotional about the film. I was confident and unapologetic about my ability to deliver, and I inspired the investor to feel excited.

WRITE AND REHEARSE LIKE A PERFORMER

Asking for money for a raise or an investment needs to be rehearsed, just like a scene from a play. Make it clear that not giving you the money is a huge mistake.

So write a script to rehearse from, same as an actor would.

The good news is that this is going to guarantee you’re able to move past that fear and ask for that well-deserved raise or promotion. Moving past the fear means using the techniques of objection and action in your asks and pitches.

You have something to do – you’re going after your objective, which is asking for that raise relentlessly. So there’s no time for fear. Fear comes from being in your head and worrying about hearing the word “no.”

When you have the objective of keeping their attention and then applying the action of asking for that raise, you don’t have room in your brain for fear. You’re going after that raise, the investment, the promotion – you are clear. And fear is not invited to that party.

An investor on the fence about investing in my musical asked me the question after a long pitch – “Are you sure this is going to be good for me?”

My fear would’ve said, “I can’t promise but I think so.” My clarity and certainty said: “Without question. This is the right project for both of us to work on.”

TALK ABOUT WHY YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO

Share what you love. This is the part where you get to share how much you love your job, the projects you’ve been working on, your team, the company, and all the accomplishments you’ve made together.

Always start with how you feel about working there because emotions evoke emotions.

For example: “Being able to work here gives me a real sense of purpose and community. I know what we are doing together is making a difference in the world.”

Or try this: “I am super psyched about our collaboration. The freedom and respect I feel from working here with you and the team is amazing.”

SHARE YOUR SUCCESS STORIES

Move on to a success directly attributed to you, but also directly attributed to the company.

“I am thrilled to see that my efforts have helped us land four new clients in the last year.”

You’re exhibiting teamship and offering specific numbers to illustrate your contribution in how you’ve led growth at the company.

REHEARSE WITH A PARTNER

Before you go in the room to ask for a pay raise, get a scene partner. This is when you move into the ask. That may sound terrifying, but you will rehearse this script under that mild pressure of having your friend, partner or spouse in front of you.

This is super important – you must speak those words out loud in front of another human being. Not a mirror. Not your dog. This kind of rehearsal disconnects your words from fear so you can confidently speak them.

For example: “I’m looking forward to our ongoing collaboration and I have no doubt that we have so much more to accomplish together. So let’s talk money. I’m ready to be making X, and I’d love to know that you are on board.”

Then – and this is so important – you must wait. You have just asked for a raise. Do not back pedal because you feel uncomfortable in the silence. Allow your boss to hear you, process what you’ve said, and then respond.

Part of getting past the fear of asking for a raise is also getting past the fear of waiting for the answer.

You’ve got this.

Write that award-winning script, give that standing ovation worthy performance and take it all the way to the bank.

Use these skills on stage and off for ongoing success. Remember – you are always a public speaker if you are speaking in public.

Tricia Brouk is an award-winning director, writer, producer and public speaking coach. As an expert in the art of public speaking, she puts speakers on TEDx and other big stages. She also hosts The Big Talk, an award-winning motivational speaker podcast on iTunes.

Tricia can give help you become the confident, inspirational speaker you are meant to be. If you’re looking for a speaker coach who can get you to the next level, reach out to Tricia Brouk today! In the meantime, check out her YouTube page for more public speaking tips and tricks.


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