What do you do if you want to prove your worth and secure a raise in your performance review?

Have a list of all your accomplishments and all the things you want to do going forward. That list of things going forward may be just as important. The reason is that a lot of companies don't value “good-enough” as much as they should. But many companies value employees with potential and vision.

Tracking your successes isn’t just about documenting achievements—it's about crafting a compelling narrative of your journey. Think of each project and milestone as chapters in a story where you’re the protagonist driving positive change. Highlighting how your contributions have directly benefited the company transforms a list of accomplishments into a powerful testament to your impact. This storytelling approach not only reinforces your value but also makes a memorable case for why you deserve recognition and a raise. Your track record becomes a testament to your growth and dedication, painting a vivid picture of your role in the company's success.

Ensure your goals are "SMART" (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to provide clear direction and benchmarks for success. Discuss with your manager on the proposed goals and seek feedback to rework on the goals, this approach shows your eagerness to achieve goals for company as well. Track and document your achievements: Monitor your own progress towards the targeted goals and adjust as required from time to time. Also record your accomplishments related to these goals, this record keeping and documentation will be valuable during your performance review. This approach not only boosts your chances of a successful review but also positions you as a proactive and results-oriented professional.

Setting goals isn't just about meeting targets—it's about showing your proactive commitment to the company’s success. By establishing clear, measurable goals aligned with your organization's objectives, you’re not only demonstrating foresight but also signaling your investment in mutual growth. Discussing these goals with your manager and incorporating their feedback ensures you're on the right path. When you achieve these goals by your performance review, you’re not just providing evidence of your accomplishments; you’re showcasing your strategic thinking and dedication. This approach makes your case for a raise more compelling, showing that you’re not only meeting expectations but actively working towards the company’s success.

It's important to seek operationalized feedback and return with a list of KPIs that you and your superior can agree upon. If you hit the KPIs, you get a raise + promotion. That is the best way to ensure you get promoted. If your company backs out last minute from any agreement they make, you should leave.

Seeking feedback is more than just a strategy for improvement—it's a testament to your commitment to growth. By actively soliciting input from peers and supervisors, you're not only uncovering areas to enhance but also demonstrating a genuine desire to evolve. This proactive approach helps you address weaknesses and build on strengths well before your review. Presenting this feedback, along with the concrete steps you've taken to improve, shows that you're not just passively accepting criticism but actively using it to drive your professional development. This dedication can make a powerful case for why you deserve a raise.

If you want to prove your worth and secure a raise in your performance review, focus on internal networking. Building strong relationships within your organization can provide advocates who support your request. These connections can attest to your work ethic, collaboration, and contributions, adding weight to your case. Networking also keeps you informed about the company's challenges and needs, allowing you to tailor your pitch to align with organizational goals. Make sure to document your achievements and how they have benefited the company.

Clearly and confidently communicate your personal brand during your performance review. Be specific about your unique qualities and how they have positively impacted the company. Highlight evidence, innovative solutions you came up with, to support your points. Emphasize how your unique qualities have benefited the team and the company. Show how your skills and experiences have led to tangible results, such as increased efficiency, revenue growth, or enhanced team collaboration. Connect your personal brand to the company's objectives and values. This shows your proactive approach to personal and professional growth. Present this narrative confidently during your review to leave a lasting impression on your manager.

Your personal brand is your professional fingerprint, and it's crucial to showcase it during your performance review. Rather than just listing achievements, illustrate how your unique skills and experiences have made a tangible impact on the company. Share specific examples that highlight what sets you apart from your peers and how these attributes have contributed to the team’s success. A well-articulated personal brand doesn’t just demonstrate your value—it makes a compelling case for why you deserve recognition and a raise, positioning you as a standout asset to the organization.

Internal networking is more than just making friends at work—it's about building a network of advocates who can champion your case for a raise. Cultivate relationships with colleagues across departments to gain insights into company needs and challenges. These connections can provide valuable endorsements, highlighting your contributions and collaborative spirit. By aligning your pitch with the organization’s objectives and leveraging support from within, you not only reinforce your request but also demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to the company’s success.

Gather all necessary documentation of your achievements, contributions, and the value you’ve brought to the company. Communicate your value proposition during the negotiation. Highlight your key accomplishments and how they have positively impacted the organization. Demonstrate your unique skills and how they make you an invaluable asset to the team. Outline your goals and how you plan to continue contributing to the company’s success. Show your readiness to take on new challenges. Be prepared to find a mutually beneficial solution. If the raise you request is not immediately feasible, consider discussing other forms of compensation or benefits. Maintain a confident and professional demeanor throughout the negotiation.