Having difficult conversations with your boss is never fun, and if you're an introvert, they can feel 10 times worse. But don't panic! If you, for example, are wondering how to ask for a raise when you're an introvert, chances are you;re not alone. Asking for a raise or promotion at work can always feel a little uncomfortable, no matter what your personality type is — a few extra pointers and reassurances can go a long way when you're trying to do so when you have an introverted personality.
We all want to feel that we're being treated fairly as employees, and that our organizations are giving us "back" as much as we put into them. Of course, this looks different for everyone: Some people would prefer more days off or the ability to work from home, for example, while others know they need a salary boost at the rate they've been working. Basically, whatever needs you have are your own, and there's nothing wrong with having a different set of priorities than someone else. That said, talking about your needs with your boss can be an intimidating process, even if you have a great relationship with that person otherwise.
Let's check out some specific suggestions on how to ask for a raise when you're an introvert — though these tips will likely be helpful for just about anybody else, too.
Initiate The Conversation At An Appropriate Time
As is explained over at Good.co, time when you ask for a raise at an appropriate moment. As an introvert, it might often feel like there is never a good time, but that's not actually the case. If you have a mid-year or yearly review, definitely plan ahead and try to fit the conversation in at that meeting. Otherwise, keep your eyes and ears out; if, for example, you find out your company is making budget cuts, don't bring up your raise request that day.
Also, be on the look out for positive feedback you hear about your work. As an introvert, you might feel a little awkward being the center of attention after you nail a big project, but don't shy away! You'll want to use this opportunity to talk to your boss about what needs you have and your wants for the future.
Know What Specifically You Are Aiming For
As Lisa Petrilli explains over at Yahoo!, go into the meeting about your salary or pay rate with a very clear sense of what you're looking for. If you're an introvert, you may feel tempted to let the more dominant voice in the room (in this case, possibly your boss or an HR person) to take control of the conversation. What you should do, however, is make sure you go into the meeting knowing specifically what you seek from them, and what possible routes there are to meet your needs. Resist the temptation to accept whatever someone else offers just to end an "awkward" conversation.
Put Your Request In Writing
Petrilli also stresses the importance of putting your request in writing. Depending on your work environment, you might have this conversation face-to-face, or the proper HR procedure may involve submitting a written request anyway. Either way, as an introvert, it can be helpful to write out a phrasing you feel comfortable with and practice ahead of time. You want to appear mature, professional, and confident, and writing out your language may help you feel more assured and less panicked when the time actually comes to talk.
Prepare A List Of Your Accomplishments
As Susan Krauss Whitbourne, PhD, explains over at Psychology Today, many introverts in the workplace struggle to recognize their own accomplishments. It can be easy to get caught up in "group-think" where suddenly your ideas are everybody else's, or when people try to take credit for your work or contribution. When it comes time to ask for a raise, it's so important to know, specifically, what you have done to go above and beyond in your workplace. Recognizing your individual assets and contributions can be awkward, but it's very much worth writing out.
Focus On Yourself, Not Others
This is good advice for everyone, including introverts. When you go into a meeting and ask for a raise, focus on your own accomplishments in the workplace. Don't compare yourself to others. Resist the urge to share how unfair it is that someone else makes more than you, or that you notice someone isn't pulling their weight. Asking for a raise or promotion is about celebrating you and what you bring to the table, not judging others or tearing them down.
