Q & A Table of Contents
How Do I Go From Probation To Pay?
From: Eric, Singapore
Question: I need some negotiation advice on how to approach my boss to ask for an increment of pay after the probation period of 3 months.
Response: If the probation period of three months is a formal element of your job, unless your boss is a complete dope, I am sure s/he anticipates that you will be asking for a number of things: pay, different or better resources for your office, modifications of your vacation time, and other elements of the job.
Clearly, your first step is to set up a meeting with your boss -- and then to undertake the following preparation.
You should draw up a list of what you would like to get at the end of the probationary period, and think of which are more and which are less important to you. How much pay is appropriate for someone in your job, with your experience, your skills, etc.? If you have prioritized your interests you will have a better idea which issues require you to be more assertive.
Before dealing with your boss, you should do some serious homework, asking questions of other people in your company and other folks you consider good sources of information:
- What is the normal process of how the company deals with people in terms of pay and working conditions, both at the end of the probation period and thereafter?
- Are there particular things your boss is especially interested in: productivity goals, team players, or creativity?
- Similarly, are there issues about which the boss is thought to be sensitive -- issues it is dangerous to raise?
If you prepare you will have a better understanding of what you need to ask your boss to find out what is most likely to convince him/her to give you a good raise. Unless you ask good questions and focus on the answers, your proposal may not contribute to a favorable decision.
Good luck,
Steve
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