Requesting a raise

Those who were fortunate enough to stay employed during the recession likely endured pay freezes or salary reductions. Now that the economy is finally turning the corner, many workers may soon muster up the courage to ask for a long-awaited raise.

As employers begin to shift their focus on retention, they may be receptive to such requests, according to career management services firm Lee Hecht Harrison. The company offers the following advice for negotiating for a raise:

* Identify three of your strongest accomplishments within the organization, or areas in which you took on extra responsibility.

* Do your homework on the salary range for your position, industry, and level of experience and that request a specific amount to open the negotiations.

* Practice and prepare. Have someone else play the role of your boss and run through any objections you’ll encounter. For example, if you’re told the company can’t afford to give raises, you might point out ways that you’ve saved the organization money or brought in additional revenue.

* Consider negotiating for non-cash forms of compensation, such as flex time, career development, or additional vacation time.

Rita Brauneck, senior vice president and general manager of Lee Hecht Harrison’s Cleveland and North Olmsted offices, says preparation is key to success. “The best approach is to plan carefully for any objections you might encounter. If you go in from a position of strength and confidence and make up your mind that no matter what, you won’t come back empty-handed, the fear of being told no will be eliminated.