In today’s economy, it is almost impossible to even think of requesting a raise in salary as more and more of your co-workers are being laid off. There is, however, a possibility that this raise may actually be available if you request it.

In times such as these, a trusted, extremely productive employee is very valuable to a company. Frequently, your workload has doubled due to layoffs and your employer can appreciate this fact. This is not an unreasonable time to ask for an increase but, first, you must do your research.

Research the web to find out what comparable employees are paid at other companies. Check sites such as salaryexpert.com and salary.com to determine equivalent jobs in your area of the country.

Be prepared to document all of your achievements. It is important that you have won awards and participated in mentoring young employees, but focus on what you have done to improve the bottom line. Employers today consider the “bottom line” to be the ultimate improvement. Prepare yourself to document what you have done to improve this number or to cut expenses. Either of these accomplishments are the way to an increase.

Sit down with your manager and discuss what he feels you need to do to get a higher salary. Then set a future date for discussing your accomplishments leading towards this goal. This date should be set at three to six months away.

In the world of business, women are sometimes expected to be more sensitive with co-workers and business associates than men.  The focus of a recent seminar for women is to follow this advice to be successful:

Communication is the most important part, so that you can learn to speak to people in a friendly, yet informative, manner and they will reciprocate in kind.  Always emphasize the advantage to the customer of a specific purchase and most will be persuaded.

Another important skill is to use candor when approaching others.  Be sincere, provide only truthful information, and people will respect you.

Concern is the next skill to be evaluated.  This includes empathy for those you are dealing with and the passion you feel for your product or service.

Competence is extremely important as people must feel confident in your ability to resolve their problems.  Continue to improve this skill through education and you will have positive results.

Establishing a connection with the people you are dealing with is extremely important.  They must feel the connection and be comfortable with you and all that you represent.

Accomplishing all of the above should be a great advantage in the business world and enable you to become very successful.