The only way I ever goat a decent raise was getting a new job. That is the only time you can really negotiate a wage. I will take a low ball offer just to get a pay check while actively seeking a new job. it is a dog eat dog world.
As my company’s payroll stayed flat, I’ve negotiated a greater percentage working at home. Now work from home in IT 90%+ of the time, only coming in on planned days for service matters you can’t do remotely.
As I explained, it saves me 2 hours of driving a day, gas, tolls, and reduces childcare on those days like after school care.
I also realize many people can’t negotiate that type of thing. But if you can’t get a raise, see what you can get in lieu of it.
The $500 a month in childcare I’ve saved by this strategy is more than the pay raises I might have received.
Exactly. I got crap 1.5% or 2% raises for years while the executive team was getting 5 figure bonuses. I got fed up with it and changed jobs twice in 2 years and increased my salary by 40% overall. I used to be an old fashioned company man loyal to the bone, now I am looking at least once a week for any opportunity that pays at least 20% more.