Now that you have an idea of what your next career step will be, redo your resume. Don’t just edit it by adding your current company, position, and your job description. Ask someone who knows, maybe someone who you are sure has a great resume, and ask them to help you vamp it up. Try ResumeGenius.com if you want expert advice. This is YOUR future so if you must invest, invest wisely. Even if you just browse through the website and check out tips, it’s worth your time. They even send you job alerts so your goals are even closer than you think. It’s a known fact that hiring managers take an average of 6 seconds to look at your resume. Make those seconds count, and don’t get your resume thrown in the trash!
Whether you’re trying to get a promotion, a raise, or both, you MUST be prepared. It’s important to be thorough so that your request is taken seriously. You have to handle it like the first interview, and bring your best. Also, talk about yourself like the new person you’ve become from the experience you’ve gained in your position. Your interviewer will have a lot going on so make sure you work on a speech that is short and to the point. Keep in mind, body language is crucial so sit up straight, maintain eye contact (not too much, don’t be weird) and be direct with any hand gestures to show you’re sure of yourself.
1. Thank them for taking out the time to speak with you. It shows that you understand their time/company time is valuable.
2. Hand them your brand new resume, and express that you’d like them to take a look at your accomplishments so far within the company.
3. As you speak, emphasize the importance of your role and your goals for yourself moving forward, as well as for your team.
4. Include the tasks you’ve either done, or would like to become competent in. If you’re looking for a promotion, this step is especially important.
5. Mention any advances in your position, and/or in competing companies that you’d like to apply and educate your peers on. Even if your goal is to leave eventually, the experience is priceless.
6. Assure them that you’ve done your research and ask for your raise in the form on a percentage. If your boss asks what that number is exactly, you may say it, but using a percentage is more professional.
7. If they counter your offer with an offer you feel is too low, ask to take time to consider it. If they need to get back to you, make sure you let it be known that you’re only willing to go down to X, so to set a standard.
8. Finally, thank them again for their time and look forward to hearing good news.
This is your career on the line, so if you feel you’re deserving, make sure you prove it with facts. Don’t worry stating the hours you’ve worked and don’t knock your less than valuable co-workers, they already know all of this. If you’ve proven yourself up until this point, this last phase will happen naturally.