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At some point in our careers, there is a time when we open our paychecks and breathe a sigh of disappointment. After years of studying at a graphic design school and countless hours spent devoted to learning from colleagues and researching new design techniques, the numbers on our pay stub just don’t seem to measure up to the numbers in our minds.

The truth is that our expectations of what we should be earning, or what we think our colleagues are pulling in each week, is probably a little skewed. But whether you are under- or overestimating what your, or a fellow web designer’s, salary is adding up to, there are several ways to effectively ask for a raise.  

• Set up an appointment to meet with your boss to ensure he/she has the time set aside to listen and discuss your request.
• Do some preliminary research to find out what others in the field are earning. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is an excellent resource for accurate facts and figures.  
• Present your case for an increase by using concrete examples of your accomplishments, contributions to the company and ways you have gone above and beyond to help your boss achieve his/her goals. Do not let emotions take the lead.
• Make a mental plan as to how you will handle being turned down. Will you ask the reason? What can you do to enhance your performance? Is your boss willing to revisit the conversation in several months?

Good luck!

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