Ask Sue
A Weekly Q&A Column About Professionalism, Etiquette and Problems in the Workplace
by Sue Morem

Should You Ask for a Raise?

Dear Sue: My boss is the type of person who has to be asked for a raise or review every year. I feel if I ask him, he’ll feel obligated and resent it later. I am feeling compelled to look for employment elsewhere. In your honest opinion, is that something that’s worth the effort?

- Rick

Sue Says: Yes, I think it is worthwhile for you to start looking to see what opportunities you might find. Whether you decide to act on what you find or not, you will at least know what is out there and what your options are. You might find something that suits you better or decide that where you are is where you want to stay.

However, keep in mind that there is no guarantee what your next boss will be like--you could be trading one problem for another. Even when it appears someone else is the cause of our problems, more often than not, part of the problem lies within us. You will benefit by trying to work through the issues you have with your boss.

Be cautious when making assumptions; you don’t know for sure what your boss is thinking or how he will react so why do you assume your boss will resent you for telling him what you need? There’s a good chance he will respect you for asserting yourself. Don’t accuse him of not giving you a review or a raise, just ask him when you can expect these things and tell him it is important for you to know what you can count on.

If you don’t say anything, nothing will change. Why not try to make the changes you are seeking?

Sue Morem is a professional speaker, trainer and syndicated columnist. She is author of the newly released 101 Tips for Graduates and How to Gain the Professional Edge, Second Edition. You can contact her by email at asksue@suemorem.com or visit her web site at http://www.suemorem.com. 

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