I don't really know what to do!?

Question

Just recently at my job of 4 years I finally asked for a raise. I make 8.75 and have asked for 10.00. I have two bosses one was here and one wasn't well she said she would talk it over with the absent boss over the weekend and let me know. How long should I wait? It's already Tuesday and my husband is asking me every day about it. They are both owners. I have taken on a lot more responsibility lately due to an Employee quiting. Not sure what to do. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Follow up today.  You brought it up, so it is not inappropriate to check with the boss who said she would talk with the other.  Be kind and sincere, but firm.

Answer 2

I would give them until the end of the week, then I would mention it again.  You don't want to nag them.

Answer 3

This depends on what you have to bargain with. If the business is doing well enough to afford to give you a raise, it might come to you soon.  In this pudding of our economy, all the plums are in trouble. Meanwhile look around at others doing the same work and see if they get the same pay or less. If somebody gets paid more for the same work, that might give weight to your request- better than, I need more money. The business owners need time to go over the finanial reports and projections before they know if they can afford to pay you more. It would do no service to anyone the go bankrupt for one employee and have to fire everybody.  The other person quit for a reason, and they weren't replaced and never will be as long as you cover the work they used to do.

Nobody is irreplaceable, so think that over before you make strong demands. If you aren't happy there with the money they pay- and it may be fair for the work, I don't know- you could find a better job and be grateful for the skills you gained on the present job.

If your husband doesn't stop stessing you about getting a raise, you're going to burn out and have to quit until you are recovered enough to get a better job. I think he needs to do more to earn money than badger you about your work. Perhaps he can support you going to school or some training to qualify you to earn more.

Have you thought about Civil Service jobs? They usually require average intelligence and a G.E.D. minimum. Go to your city hall and see what is being offered that you husband can apply for and get hired.