Nine things never to say for a raise

As we are all aware of the economic crunch, i know we all want a raise and we are feeling we have worked so hard, so its about time!
While we may need to ask for it please see nine things never to say

"I know the timing is not great but"....
If you know the timing is not great then why are you asking?, the Company probably just went through a major loss or has just invested in a major deal. Try not to approach your employer at such awkward timing, or you may be seen as being self serving, unprofessional or out of touch.



"I haven't had a raise since"....
We get that you haven't had a raise in four years despite being an above employee and you are ticked off. It's understandable but you have to understand that you were working in a recession era ans times were tough all around. Many businesses were shot down and lots of employees were either owed months of salaries or were asked to leave. If you are going to focus on yourself make it about your strengths and what makes you valuable as an employee. Harping on the negative comes off as lazy and self-absorbed. 


"I am doing the work of three people"...
Again your employer already knows this, it is better to highlight your accomplishments than come off as a complainant or whiner.

"I have been here for a year now"...
Yes your employer knows that, he/she gave you that offer that was dated, so its common knowledge to you and your employer, it's not how long you have been that matters, is what you have done in those years that matter.'

"I have done everything i was supposed to do"...
Yes you have! and you were paid for that, it is the extras that really matter when it comes to a raise.

"I need a raise because i am having personal problems"...
Who isn't? Everyone has one problem or another so that can not be a reason for a raise, it just can't.

"I want 10 million naira"...
Please be reasonable if you are asked what you want, You can go online and check the salary scale for your position and also compare it with what you have saved for the company or brought in for the company. Otherwise your employer may see you as a joker.

"I just found out that Sarah makes more than me"...
It is about you and no one else bringing your colleague into the matter will only put him/her in trouble and will not help you get the raise.

"If i don't get a raise i am out of here"...
I will not advice this move but if you will, it may work for you and  it may not and if it does not work be bold about it, please do as you say, because if you don't, your employer will only know you as a liar and you will not get the opportunity to ask for a raise again.

Culled from salary.com