How do I politely ask for a raise?

Question

I am in college, and I have been tutoring a high school student for about a year. I was very, very, VERY under-confident at first, so I only asked for minimum wage. My friends are tutoring for as much as $30/hour, so naturally, I would like to be paid at least a few dollars more than what I am earning now. How do I nicely bring up the issue with the student's mother?

Answer 1

If you decide to "politely ask for a raise" make sure it is something they can afford first. That might make it a little easier.

Thanks for asking.

Answer 2

Go in and talk to the mom. Tell her you have done some comparison, and you are being well underpaid for your work.  Tell her the going rate is about $30/hr.  Since you don't want to completely price them out and you have such a good relationship with them, you would be willing to negotiate a fair rate, such as $20/hr for your services.  You are still well under the going rate.

Be courteous.  I know you have a personal relationship with this family, but understand that this is a business deal. Act professional, but not uncaring and you will fine.  If not, find a family that will pay you what a tutor should be getting.

Answer 3

Tell her you have more expenses than you had in the past.  That the wage you are making now isn't enough to be supported on and you'd like a few extra dollars.

Let her know you enjoy what you do, so she doesn't think you do it for the money.  

Answer 4

You need to clearly explain why you need that raise and make it easy for the boss to understand.

Answer 5

I would just say to her that you have been tutoring for her child for a year and you feel that it is about time for a raise.  Than based on her response that it from there. The thing to remember is that you know you deserve it so she can't be mad or give you a hard time about bringing it up.  And if she does then I would suggest finding someone else to tutor. Now that you have your confidence and experience with tutoring I am sure you will be able to find someone else and you will be more confident in asking for more money right off the bat since you definitely deserve it. Don't be shy about it.  You deserve it and there is nothing wrong with asking for a raise after almost a year. Plus it is better to know now if she is going to stay cheap or if she will be good to you.  You don't want to continue tutoring for nothing for this person if there is no benefit. Good Luck!

Answer 6

Has your student showed a reasonable amount of improvement since you began tutoring him/her? If so, why not request a meeting with the parent, explain that you feel you've been doing a good job,students grades reflect this, and you are hoping they will understand for you to continue in this role, you need to ask for a pay increase. Most people(I've found) respond well to a direct approach when they see the merits of your efforts! Good Luck!:)

Answer 7

say that the cost of living is going up, and prices such as gas, milk, etc are increasing and it's only fair of you to ask for a raise.  

Answer 8

ask them to give you sexual favors in return for your tutoring.