Unless you work in a government office with a fixed pay structure, chances are that you have room to negotiate with your salary. Many people complain about being overworked and underpaid, but how many of us take the time to do something about that? If you're feeling stuck in a salary rut, here are some tips to help you.
First off, know when the time is right. You've heard the phrase "strike while the iron's hot"? It applies very well to your career. If you've just wrapped up a big project, or pulled off a major accomplishment, that's the perfect time to state your case. This
article from US News tells you the best time to ask (and when not to ask!) for a raise.
If the timing's right, take the next step.
1. Have courageIt's a well-known fact that most women earn less than men in the workplace, but what many people don't mention is that women are generally less likely to be assertive and ask for a raise. In other words, you have the power to bridge that salary gap! Focus on the value you bring to the position or your company, and be sure to present that information to your supervisor.
Several studies have shown that
women hesitate to ask for raises, but if you want to get ahead in your career, you need to take charge.
2. Know what you're worthDo some research. Are you really as underpaid as you think? Take a few minutes to look at what other people in your field are earning so that you can have numbers to back up your salary request. Sites like
salary.com and
payscale.com are a good starting point.
3. State your caseDo a little brainstorming. Make a list of all your accomplishments over the last week, month, or year. Focus on specific things that would matter to your boss or to the company. What sets you apart from everyone else in your division? You might always be on-time and never miss a day of work, but if you're making a case for a raise, you'll need to aim higher. What do you do that makes you unique and valuable? Can you name a specific time you went above and beyond your job description to help someone else? Have you taken any classes, or received training to help you be a better employee? What are you doing to demonstrate to your employer that you're worth the extra investment?
Even if you're not quite ready (or qualified) to ask for a raise, remember that you have the ability to get ready! Take the initiative and think of things you can do to stand out at work. Take a class or get some extra training (
We Care Online can help!). A quick and inexpensive class like
Spanish for Healthcare Providers is a perfect example of something you can do to boost your skills. It shows you're willing to work hard to improve yourself and be more valuable to your employer. Plus it gives you new skills that you can carry to any job in the future.
Ready to get started? Check out this step-by-step guide about "
How to ask for a raise"...and good luck!
If you've worked in health care for any length of time, you know how important it is to prevent the spread of germs and disease. This is particularly crucial in a hospital or care setting where you have individuals with weakened or compromised immune systems. Along with preventing things like the common cold, routine cleaning also reduces the risk of passing or acquiring potentially deadly pathogens like MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). 
In a managed care setting, you have people with various levels of cognitive and physical ability. Because of this, planning holiday activities can be a challenge. Fortunately, there is one thing you can do that has universal appeal: Bring music into your facility. Music can be relaxing, inspirational, and comforting, all at the same time. From sacred music and traditional carols like "Silent Night" and Handel's Messiah, to more modern, secular songs like "Jingle Bells", nothing will get people in the holiday spirit faster than their favorite songs.
