How To Ask for a Raise — And Get It
By Jamy J. Sullivan, JD, Robert Half
Question:
I love my job, coworkers and law firm, and I’ve worked hard since I was hired. Now that the job market has gotten so competitive, I’d like to leverage my position as an in-demand professional to ask for a raise. How do I approach my boss about it?
Answer:
Requesting a raise can be nerve-wracking, but there’s never been a better time to do it. Top legal talent is scarce right now, so if you’re a strong, experienced performer, your firm won’t want to lose you. Here are some things to consider — and prepare — before approaching your boss about a pay raise.
Don’t enter a salary negotiation without a target figure in mind. Use trusted resources like the Robert Half Salary Guide to benchmark what legal professionals with your job title, skill set and years of experience are earning nationwide and in your region.
It’s law 101: the more evidence you provide, the stronger your case will be. For example, if you went the extra mile during the pandemic, why not center your argument around that? Note down extra assignments or responsibilities you’ve taken on, and provide certificates for the continuing legal education and professional development courses you’ve completed. Glowing thank-you notes from clients and colleagues should also go in the evidence docket. In short, do anything you can to remind your boss that the firm is more successful with you than it would be without you.
Jamy J. Sullivan is executive director of the legal practice at Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm. Robert Half offers contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions, and is the parent company of Protiviti®, a global consulting firm. Visit
RobertHalf.com.