Q: My workload has increased
recently, so I feel I am overdue for a raise. What's the best way to
approach this topic with my boss? How should I prepare?

A: In today's streamlined
economy, working more is par for the course—but being underpaid isn't.
If you're already doing work deserving of a raise, you need to speak up
and ask for a pay hike. But first, do a little homework.

Analyze your job performance from your supervisor's point of view. Ask
yourself these critical questions: Would your boss hire you today?
What's the most important thing you do for her? What does she consider
your talents to be? What would she say you could do to improve your
performance and add more value to your job? How could you become a
"dream team" employee in her eyes?

When you have a clear idea of how you're making your boss's life
easier, schedule a meeting and state your case. Phrase your raise
request in percentages, not dollars. If you ask for a 5 percent
increase (roughly 3.7 percent is the national average for salary budget
increases), it will sound better than if you request a flat $2,500
raise.

If your raise is denied, be sure to thank your boss for listening
and then try to get specific information about what you can do to be
more successful about a raise in the future. If the feedback you hear
is largely negative, and you disagree with your boss's criticisms, then
it may be time to update your resum