Asking for a raise can be terrifying, especially when it comes to confronting an employer you may not talk too much. However, knowing your worth in a professional setting will carry you far if you can self-advocate. This guide will walk you through step by step how to conduct your own research in determining potential pay increases and/or title changes that more accurately reflect your day-to-day responsibilities.

Step 1: Make a list

Think about your day-to-day responsibilities in your current position and write them all down. This could be something as simple as writing daily emails or as big as executing projects start to finish. Whatever the tasks may be, write them down, get organized, get knowledgeable.

Step 2: Research

Take the list you made in step 1 and deep dive into the professional side of the internet. Go on a job posting website such as LinkedIn or Glassdoor and research both your current title and those similar to it. Be sure to look at the list of responsibilities outlined by the job position and take note of the title for those that closely align with your list made in step 1. Find out what your goals are and what you need to achieve them.

Step 3: Know your worth

Hopefully, the research done in step 2 revealed opportunities for professional growth. If the responsibilities described in step 1 align closely with a different title from what you currently hold then what's their salary? Is it more or less than your current salary? Maybe your responsibilities still closely align with your current position, but what are other companies offering in terms of pay? Is it more or less than what you currently make? Determine whether or not you feel a title change or salary adjustment is appropriate based on your research. Determine your capabilities and be able to verbalize what you can bring to the table.

Step 4: Forming an argument

No boss is going to easily give out a pay raise or official title change, which is why you need to come up with an argument to back up your request. Start by acknowledging all the work you’ve done for the company or how long you’ve worked there. Be sure to remind the employer of your worth and everything you bring to the table. Next, utilize all your research and transform them into substantial points of your argument. Point out that your current salary/title is inadequate considering the responsibilities you carry. Display why a raise or promotion would be necessary while also representing what you have learned and how you can grow.

Step 5: Confidence

Lastly, have confidence. No one is going to believe you deserve a raise or title change if you don’t first believe in it yourself! An employer is much more likely to agree to the proposition if you are passionate about your argument and stay true to your values. If you feel as though a raise is appropriate, chances are it probably is so hold onto that. With these five steps you will be able to thrive while asking for a raise or promotion and you got this!