The Best Steps I Took to Increase My Salary
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Here on Selfmadesns.com, I share my personal life experiences so you can learn from both my mistakes and successes. However, what works for me might not work for everyone. Always do your own research and consider consulting a professional before making important decisions. Doing both will give you the best chance for success. For more details, please visit our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy pages.
How I Took Control of My Career and Boosted My Salary
When I was working in the corporate world, I never felt like I was reaching my full potential or growing beyond just doing my job. Sure, my salary was decent, and I was good at what I did—but I wasn’t happy waking up every morning to a predictable, uninspiring day. There was nothing exciting about it. Then one day, I decided enough was enough. I told myself I was going to get the money and the position I wanted—something that would make me WANT to go to work!
Step 1: Identify Your Starting Point
The first thing I did was have a serious meeting with myself—a self-assessment to figure out what I excelled at and where I needed improvement. Once I had a clear understanding of my skills, I researched what positions best fit those skills, which roles I thought I could succeed in, and which jobs offered the salary I desired. The catch? The roles where I was skilled didn’t pay enough, and the high-paying ones required skills I didn’t yet have.
Step 2: Enhance Your Skills
Based on my findings, I knew I needed to upgrade myself. I enrolled in courses to earn certifications, and I even went back to school online to get an advanced degree that would qualify me for better positions. The lesson? Acquire in-demand skills so you become a valuable asset that companies want to hire or promote.
Step 3: Be Valuable at Work
While upgrading my skills, I made sure to prove my value on the job. I went above and beyond—taking on extra responsibilities, tackling projects outside my usual scope, and bringing in new business. This helped me get noticed by leadership, and I made sure they knew my contributions were driving results.
Step 4: Network, Network, Network
As you grow your skills and contributions, you’ll naturally start building relationships with key people inside and outside your company. These connections can help open doors you might not find on your own. Networking internally is just as important as external connections—both can accelerate your career.
Step 5: Prepare for Your Approach
When it came time to ask for a raise or promotion, I was ready. I compiled a record of my accomplishments, positive feedback, awards, and recognitions. I understood my leverage and practiced making a professional, fact-based case for why I deserved the new role or salary. I waited for the right moment—usually during performance reviews—to make my move.
Step 6: Keep Your Options Open
While waiting on my current company, I also explored opportunities both inside and outside the organization. This gave me leverage and confidence because I wasn’t putting all my eggs in one basket. Showing you have options increases your negotiating power and proves your value.
Bonus: 3 Things to Improve Your Odds of Success
Success rarely just falls into your lap—it requires intentional effort. Here are three powerful ways to boost your chances of achieving your goals:
1. Create a Plan
Write down exactly what you want to achieve, no matter how big or small. Set a realistic timeline with deadlines and plan for setbacks—because nothing goes perfectly. Break your goal into smaller steps to create a clear action plan. Remember: a dream with a deadline becomes a goal.
2. Develop the Right Mindset
“You can’t change your life by changing your life; you can only change your life by changing your way of thinking.” Starting your day with doubt won’t get you anywhere. Expect negativity along the way, but stay focused and mentally prepared to face every emotion. Tunnel vision on your goal is key.
3. Back Your Plan with Action
Elon Musk famously said, “Work like hell. Put in 80 to 100 hour weeks.” If others are working 40 hours and you’re putting in 100, you’ll reach your goal faster. If you want to save $5,000 in two years but only have a part-time job, get a second job or find extra ways to earn. Hard work and hustle improve your odds dramatically.
Summary
After making my case and following these steps, I saw my salary increase and my career take off. Remember to follow up with your employer after your request, ask for feedback, and always stay professional—even if things don’t go your way immediately. Keep enhancing your skills and proving your value.
These are the steps I took to transform my corporate career. I hope they help you too! Let me know in the comments where you are in your career journey. Thanks for reading, and please share the blog with your friends. Good luck!