What do you do if your performance in the search engine field deserves a raise?

2 Know Worth

Understanding the market rate for your role is crucial when considering asking for a raise. Research what professionals with similar skills and experience are earning in your industry and region. This information arms you with the necessary context to gauge whether your current compensation matches your market worth. When you approach your employer, present this data to support your case. It's not just about what you feel you deserve; it's about aligning your salary with the industry standards.

3 Timing Matters

Timing is a critical factor in asking for a raise. Ideally, you should broach the subject at a time when the company is performing well financially and after you've recently achieved a significant SEO milestone. This positions your request in a positive light, associating it with success and growth. Avoid times of budget cuts or economic downturns, as these periods make it more challenging for employers to approve salary increases. Aligning your request with positive performance reviews or the end of a successful project can also bolster your case.

4 Present Case

When you're ready to discuss your raise, schedule a formal meeting with your supervisor. Prepare a well-structured presentation that outlines your achievements, the research on market rates, and the reasons why you believe a raise is justified. Approach the conversation with confidence but remain open to dialogue. Your goal is to create a persuasive argument that highlights your value to the company while also showing that you understand the business's needs and financial constraints.

5 Negotiate Smartly

If you're met with resistance or a counteroffer that's below your expectations, it's time to negotiate smartly. Be prepared to discuss alternative compensation options such as additional benefits, flexible working hours, or opportunities for professional development. Remember, negotiation is a two-way street; it's about finding a compromise that both you and your employer can agree upon. Maintain a professional demeanor throughout the process and avoid ultimatums that could sour the negotiation.

6 Plan B

Despite your best efforts, there's always a chance that your request for a raise might be declined. If this happens, don't be discouraged. Ask for feedback on why the raise was not approved and what you can do to improve your chances in the future. Use this as an opportunity to set clear goals and expectations for what is required to achieve a salary increase. Meanwhile, continue to excel in your role and gather more evidence of your contributions to revisit the conversation at a later date.