How to ask and get a pay raise from the boss

Robert Half staffing agency has come out with a series of suggestions for job seekers and employers after doing specific local research in the area.

The CBS 58 News at 4 is airing a series of interviews with Milwaukee Metro Market Manager Jim Jeffers.

He says a survey of 1,000 employees back in April showed  90% said they wanted more money.

Fewer than 40% wanted to ask for it.

"So people would rather clean their house or get a root canal rather than talk to their boss about getting more money," Jeffers told CBS 58 News. "It's hard for people. It's a private matter. It's your pay. It's not a conversation we have all the time."

Jeffers says when you do go to talk with your boss about more money make sure you are prepared to document your worth.

Just like with your resume, do your research and learn what competing firms are paying.

"Go in and tell them what projects you've completed and how they were successful. Also say 'see a competitor is paying a dollar more an hour.' What do I need to do to get there?" 

Of course many dread the idea of going to the boss, especially if you catch him or her on a bad day.

What if the response is negative.

Don't apologize says Jeffers.

He says good companies know what it takes, or should know what it takes, to keep good employees.

"I think for an employer, it would be best to have those conversations," suggests Jeffers. "The employees you are paying the best will stay the longest. My advice is make sure you're having those conversations. Make sure you're listening to your employees. Turnover comes at a high risk. And then you're starting the recruiting process all over again."

Next Monday on the News at 4, Jeffers will discuss strategies for the right way to go about an exit interview before leaving a company.

To review his story about fast tracking your resume during a job search click here