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How do I go about getting a salary raise? I’ve worked for two years and not received an increase, nor a promotion nor any additional compensation.

      I work overtime when I have to get my job done on time. I like my job, but it is a startup company without a Human Resources department to go to for advice.

      I’m not confrontational because I’m constantly being cradled into complacency when I’m told that my work is exceptional and appreciated. But those praises are not reflected in my paycheck.

      I happen to know that three of my male coworkers recently received raises. What really ticks me off is that I recently completed a certificate process in my field that these coworkers don’t have.

The gender gap is real, especially when it comes to paychecks, but it is slowly shrinking. I’m not asking you to wait it out, if anything, I want you to create a sales pitch – but you’ll need to do some research.

      The onus is on you to prove that you deserve a raise in salary. Start by preparing your pitch.

• Made sure you’ve had an end to the 2017 job review. If you didn’t get one, ask for one and for specific performance-review goals. Find out what is expected of you.
• Ask what’s different about your work from that of the coworkers who did get a raise and what it would take to bring you to parity.
• If represented by a union and you work on a contract, find out where you are on the pay scale.
• Research salaries in your line of work at several online sources.
• Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics that oversees a thousand occupations.

• Now that you’re ready to practice your sales pitch, start by reciting it, alone, in the mirror, before cajoling a colleague or friend to critique your pitch.
• Give examples of instances where you’ve shined to remind your boss that you are worthy of a raise.
• Remember you’re not asking for a special present, only compensation for your work.

Once you’re confident that your arguments are valid:

• Email your boss for an appointment to discuss your work.
• Set up a time to meet by suggesting two different days, and let her/him set the exact time of the meeting.