With rising inflation, expert explains how to ask for a raise at work

The U.S. economy shrank for a second straight quarter, and some fear a recession could be ahead.

However, the overall job market is strong, with North Carolina’s unemployment rate at a low 3.4%.

To help keep up with the extra costs that come with rising inflation and interest rates, you may consider asking your boss for a raise.

5 On Your Side asked an expert: What gives you the best shot at getting a raise?

Bev Porter is the Director of the Career Management Center at NC State’s Poole College of Managment.

She says three keys can help boost your case when asking for a raise.

First, show appreciation.

"I would go into my manager’s office with an expression of appreciation for working for the organization, assuming that I enjoy that," Porter said. "I would thank them for the opportunity to work for them."

Second, be your own cheerleader.

"Make sure that you are prepared to talk about what you bring to the table," Porter said. "How have you supported the organization during these tumultuous times?

Finally, research what you’re asking for.

"You just can’t go in and throw out a number, it should be an informed ask, you should know what the market will bear," Porter said.

She says you can ask for that data within your organization or look at sites like salary.com or Glassdoor.

After the ask, give your employer time to process the request.

"Silence is golden after the ask has been put forward," Porter says.

If the answer is "no", have a backup plan. Know what else you’d like to negotiate – like more work from home days, additional vacation or professional development.