What do you do if your performance in the branding industry deserves a raise?

1 Assess Value

Before initiating the raise conversation, thoroughly assess your value to the company. Reflect on your recent branding projects and their success. Have your strategies led to increased brand awareness or sales? Can you demonstrate a clear return on investment (ROI) from your efforts? Understanding your contributions objectively will give you the confidence to present your case. Remember, in branding, it's not just about creativity; it's about tangible results that benefit the company's bottom line.

2 Prepare Evidence

When you're ready to discuss a raise, come prepared with evidence of your achievements. Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, including any branding campaigns that have exceeded expectations. Highlight any instances where your expertise directly led to business growth or improved customer perception. Concrete examples of your impact will make a compelling argument for why you deserve a raise.

3 Timing Matters

Choosing the right time to ask for a raise is crucial. Aim for a period when the company is doing well financially, and your recent work has had a positive impact. Avoid times of budget cuts or economic downturns. If you've just completed a successful project or campaign, that might be the perfect moment to highlight how your skills have contributed to the company's success and to broach the subject of compensation.

4 Present Case

When the time comes, present your case confidently and professionally. Explain how your branding expertise has driven results, using the evidence you've gathered. Be clear about the raise you're seeking and why you believe it's justified. Remember to listen to your employer's perspective and be prepared to negotiate. The goal is to reach an agreement that reflects your value to the company.

5 Negotiation Tips

Negotiating a raise can be daunting, but there are strategies to help you succeed. Begin by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the company's branding efforts. Then, state your case succinctly, focusing on how your work has directly benefited the company. Be open to discussion and ready to answer questions about your performance. If the initial response isn't favorable, don't be discouraged. Ask what steps you could take to achieve the raise in the future.

6 Follow Up

After presenting your case, it's important to follow up. If a decision wasn't made during your initial conversation, set a date for when you'll revisit the topic. If you received a positive response, ensure that the agreed-upon raise is documented and that there's clarity on when it will take effect. If the outcome wasn't what you hoped for, seek feedback on how you can improve and possibly secure a raise in the future. Keep the conversation positive and constructive; maintaining a good relationship with your employer is key.