Your Brand Could Get You a Raise
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“I had no idea that being your authentic self could make me as rich as I’ve become. If I had, I’d have done it a lot earlier.” -Oprah Winfrey



Here are a few points I made when I was the guest Personal Brand Expert on KTXD-TV in Dallas, TX.



1. Have a story to tell. When was there a time that you used your brand strengths to reach a departmental goal or affect the bottom line of the company? Too often, we reach a goal and never take the time to think through what attributes brought success. What is that secret sauce that is unique to YOU, to YOUR brand?



Example, as an innovative marketing manager, Rick was charged with finding a way for his client to launch a new product line quickly and at the same time have a high impact in the marketplace. An idea struck him to use a model from another successful launch and create a more unconventional campaign that could shorten the time to market. Not only did his innovative approach work, but also that client saved thousands of dollars.



2. Timing is the essence of life. The best time to ask for a raise is during a stellar performance appraisal. That’s the opportunity to say, “And since we are talking about how my performance has benefitted the company, can you give me an idea of when I might expect a raise (or have a chance at that new position we’ve been discussing?”) If the answer is not now, you might follow by asking, “What else can I do to earn a raise (or the opportunity for a promotion?)



3. Be confident in the task. Know what you intend to ask for and have the facts listed about what you have accomplished most recently in the company and the competencies you used to be successful. Set up a time to meet with your boss in person rather than by email or phone.



Now go for it. You’ll never get what you deserve unless you’re willing to ASK!