Advice on asking for a raise

[Jacob1983]

I'm almost on the 1 year mark at being at my current job. I feel that I deserve some type of raise for being there for a year. I also have a great attendance record and reliability record too. I've covered other people's shifts numerous times and I stay late at my job when it's needed. Honestly, I'm Mr. Reliable and Dependable at my work because I'm always holding things together and doing a good job at it. I just don't know how to ask. Do I need to be assertive, confident, and not back down from it? Or should I be mellow, open minded, and flexible about it? When you ask for a raise, how do you usually say it and what kind of tone do you use? Since I've been there, I've only gotten a raise of 5 cents. That's kind of joke in my opinion but I guess it's life.

[Vinnie_Johnson]

I'm almost on the 1 year mark at being at my current job. I feel that I deserve some type of raise for being there for a year. I also have a great attendance record and reliability record too. I've covered other people's shifts numerous times and I stay late at my job when it's needed. Honestly, I'm Mr. Reliable and Dependable at my work because I'm always holding things together and doing a good job at it. I just don't know how to ask. Do I need to be assertive, confident, and not back down from it? Or should I be mellow, open minded, and flexible about it? When you ask for a raise, how do you usually say it and what kind of tone do you use? Since I've been there, I've only gotten a raise of 5 cents. That's kind of joke in my opinion but I guess it's life.

I would ask at your review. Did you have one?

[eyeh8u]

fuck a raise. bloody coup d'état

[Fpoonsie]

Wear something short and something low-cut, um, Jacob.

[DMX7]

March right into your boss's office and say "I want a raise". Then, when he tells you no, tell him to "Peace the fuck out" and quit.

[PuttPutt]

Look for another job that pays better. If they want you they'll keep you & pay more. If not, bouce & take the other job. That's how I leveraged my boss. Got thousands more.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Depends on your situation and boss etc. As someone said before, if you have a review time then that is the time to ask.

OTOH don't IMMEDIATELY pull the other job card. I would simply ask him if at some point could sit down and have a talk with you. At that time tell him exactly what you told us here: what you have done for the company, how you have gone out of your way to help others and your diligence the entire time. Say your an asset to the company and it only makes sense that your pay reflect that. Bring paperwork that shows what your talking about. It makes it look like you have your shit together.

I would also recommend asking for a particular amount. If you know what other people are getting then that will give you a good idea of how much you can get. Don't be a dumbass and actually bring that person or how much they make relevant to the figure you give you boss when you discuss it with him.

If you like working there then just go find another job and then use that as leverage. If that doesn't work just go work for the other place cause your boss is a douchebag.

[ploto]

In this economy, you might not like the answer you get. In what kind of field do you work?

[BacktoBasics]

So you did your job. Did what you're supposed to do for the amount they hired you for. Did if for one whole year. WOW you should definitely demand more. One whole year and you managed to do what you were supposed to do. Amazing.

[Extra Stout]

I'm almost on the 1 year mark at being at my current job. I feel that I deserve some type of raise for being there for a year. I also have a great attendance record and reliability record too. I've covered other people's shifts numerous times and I stay late at my job when it's needed. Honestly, I'm Mr. Reliable and Dependable at my work because I'm always holding things together and doing a good job at it. I just don't know how to ask. Do I need to be assertive, confident, and not back down from it? Or should I be mellow, open minded, and flexible about it? When you ask for a raise, how do you usually say it and what kind of tone do you use? Since I've been there, I've only gotten a raise of 5 cents. That's kind of joke in my opinion but I guess it's life.
I'm assuming this is some kind of hourly job.

[I. Hustle]

I don't think the highschool kid that is running your Whataburger is going to care too much if you ask for a raise. He might just let you have a couple free burgers here and there.

[coyotes_geek]

I'm almost on the 1 year mark at being at my current job. I feel that I deserve some type of raise for being there for a year. I also have a great attendance record and reliability record too. I've covered other people's shifts numerous times and I stay late at my job when it's needed. Honestly, I'm Mr. Reliable and Dependable at my work because I'm always holding things together and doing a good job at it. I just don't know how to ask. Do I need to be assertive, confident, and not back down from it? Or should I be mellow, open minded, and flexible about it? When you ask for a raise, how do you usually say it and what kind of tone do you use? Since I've been there, I've only gotten a raise of 5 cents. That's kind of joke in my opinion but I guess it's life.

If your company does yearly performance reviews, ask about a raise during your review. If you don't know whether your company does yearly reviews or not, ask about that. If they don't, then you've just got to go to your boss and ask for a raise flat out. Also, don't be the guy who's banging down his boss' door exactly 365 days after you started. Give it a month or two past your 1 year date. As for how to ask, if you boss is assertive, confident and doesn't back down, then that's how you need to be. But don't get confrontational. If your boss is mellow, open minded and flexible, take that approach.

[Drachen]

So you did your job. Did what you're supposed to do for the amount they hired you for. Did if for one whole year. WOW you should definitely demand more. One whole year and you managed to do what you were supposed to do. Amazing.

I understand where you are coming from here B2B, but you leave out one important factor. When they hired him, he had no experience at the job, required training, etc. Now he is an experienced (though I wouldn't say veteran) employee. Someone with one year's worth of experience gets paid more than a rook.

[ashbeeigh]

Have you talked to other people that have worked there for more than a year? Not mentioning amounts, just ask about reviews and see if anything came out of them. In some jobs raises come about yearly no matter what, based on performance, etc. In others, it's all arbitrary and it sucks.

And you were pretty vague on what type of company you worked for so. Until we know specifics you're going to get a combination of snarky and real comments.

[clambake]

anyone that gives a 5 cent raise needs an ass kicking.

[fraga]

It really depends on the job field your in...is this just a job...or an actual career...if it's just a job...at like Wendy's...you're pretty much shit out of luck...cause I doubt they would give you an sort of significant increase...if it's an actual desk job...where you are in the position of saving the company money...and you some how increase productivity...then if you are as good as you say you are...you have a good case for a raise...even in this economy...if they don't give you one...start looking for a new job...

[coyotes_geek]

anyone that gives a 5 cent raise needs an ass kicking.

Bill Miller's, 1987. They wouldn't just give me the fucking 5 cent raise. In order to get the raise I had to take a test covering all things Bill Miller, like how to determine whether or not the brisket is leathery enough to serve to customers.

[Drachen]

anyone that gives a 5 cent raise needs an ass kicking.

Yeah, thanks for that extra 8.60 a month.

[manufan10]

anyone that gives a 5 cent raise needs an ass kicking.

Hey that's 5 more cents than you had before. :lol

[CosmicCowboy]

Ask your boss what their policy is on raises and what you can reasonably expect. Ask if there is anything else you need to learn or do to make yourself more valuable to the company. This is NOT a good time to be demanding a raise.

[Dex]

Ask your boss what their policy is on raises and what you can reasonably expect. Ask if there is anything else you need to learn or do to make yourself more valuable to the company. This is NOT a good time to be demanding a raise.

I think this is the best answer so far. This brings the subject up and lets the boss know that you are interested, without being either demanding or threatening. And then you can get a gauge of how realistic a raise would be, and what you need to do to obtain it.

Like CC mentioned, a lot of companies, even those with money, are curtailing raises now because of the economy. For example, I've heard Dell has pretty much ruled out all raises for this fiscal year. It's not to say that you can't get one, or that you don't deserve it...but it's a tough time to be asking for more money from anybody right now.

Just be assertive without being overbearing. That's what jobs like to see.

Good luck.

[JudynTX]

:( No cost of living raise for us.

[Dex]

Also, if the place offered you a five-cent raise before, it sounds like they may just be cheapskates.

When I worked retail, I once made the jump from checker to front-end supervisor, which involved managing all of the checkers, getting there early to open the store, staying late to check out the tills and make sure everything was spic and span, and running my ass ragged during the holiday season.

And the raise Academy gave me for this promotion? A whopping $0.35 cents per hour. They claimed it was just while I was in my 'probationary period', then never went back and changed it before I just got fed up and left for a job that is now paying me thrice the wages.

Some places are just cheap (typically the big franchises and chains), and won't give out the money even if you're the Best Employee Ever. If that's the case, I recommend biting the bullet and finding a job that pays you what you are worth.

[I. Hustle]

Wells Fargo has said no to raises depending on what area you work in.

[CosmicCowboy]

I think this is the best answer so far. This brings the subject up and lets the boss know that you are interested, without being either demanding or threatening. And then you can get a gauge of how realistic a raise would be, and what you need to do to obtain it.

Like CC mentioned, a lot of companies, even those with money, are curtailing raises now because of the economy. For example, I've heard Dell has pretty much ruled out all raises for this fiscal year. It's not to say that you can't get one, or that you don't deserve it...but it's a tough time to be asking for more money from anybody right now.

Just be assertive without being overbearing. That's what jobs like to see.

Good luck.

I heard on the news this morning that Bexar County is DECREASING salaries...2% for those making less than 50K and 5% for those making over 50K.

[angel_luv]

It sounds like you have worked really hard and deserve a raise. I said a prayer that you get one and a bigger one than you are expecting. All the best to you! :)

[clambake]

It sounds like you have worked really hard and deserve a raise. I said a prayer that you get one and a bigger one than you are expecting. All the best to you! :)

but you better hurry.......cuz she's also praying for the rapture.

[newacc]

I'd follow Dale Carnegie's advice and make your boss feel like he/she has total control over the situation (regardless of reality). I would first come in and say right away that you're there to ask for a raise. Being up front helps. Then be as honest and forthright as you were in your post and explain what you bring to the company and why you can justify a raise in their bottom line. Tell them how much productivity and ultimately money you make them and what a positive influence you are in the work place.

It's a lot easier to pay someone who you know is worth the money than it is to someone who feels like they should be paid more because they've been around awhile.

If they turn you down, play it cool and just say thank you for your time. Then immediately start looking for another job that will pay you what you're worth. When you find one, put in your two weeks and as soon as you leave, your boss and company will be sorry you left.

[Thunder Dan]

I haven't got a raise in like 3 years. I don't know why you deserve one after only working there a year. A year is nothing so that shouldn't be the main reason you ask for a raise. I haven't asked for a raise in awhile because I'm just thankful to have a job in this economy and don't want to sour my relationship with my employer if they deny my request. They throw me bones each year like more paid time off and things like that, but I haven't got an actual raise since I was hired 3 years ago.

[CosmicCowboy]

but you better hurry.......cuz she's also praying for the rapture.

:lmao:lmao:lmao:lmao

[angel_luv]

but you better hurry.......cuz she's also praying for the rapture.

Talk about the ultimate promotion! :)

[clambake]

:lmao:lmao:lmao:lmao

you and i have been "around" for quite some time.

what would angel do if god said "Angel, to prove your faith and loyalty, you must sacrifice the life of your husband."

[DarkReign]

you and i have been "around" for quite some time.

what would angel do if god said "Angel, to prove your faith and loyalty, you must sacrifice the life of your husband."

If by God you mean "stalker in a robe" and by kill husband you mean "relieve him of his Earthly body", then you know your answer.

[clambake]

i fear the power of voices in her head. she's ready and willing to embrace them.

[DarkReign]

To the OP:

You got hired at a job you had ZERO experience with, they trained you, they paid you for that training and you performed well (by your standards). After you lost your "diapers" you want a raise?

After a year?

One whole year?

Brother, paying you, your benefits and your training time...if you quit now your company would actually have to assign your employment a negative value.

Until that value gets on the positive side, youre only going to insult your employer. Take the advice of those peeps who told you to wait for the review (if you have one). If you dont and youre stuck on getting a raise, seek new employment.

The chances of a company giving a raise to a newly minted, 365 day employee are about jack and shit right now. Jack left town.

[Wild Cobra]

Hard to say. No idea what type of job you have or if you have grown in value to the company.

Attendance, reliability? Those are expected, and not attributes to ask for a raise upon.

In this economy, it you job value has not increased with more responsibilities, or better than expected performance, I would count on getting a raise.

My experience in the corporate world is that the satisfactory employee gets a raise equal to the cost of living. Higher achievers get more, and lower achievers get less.

[gatoloco]

a raise where and for doing what?


it's gonna sound silly to ask your boss for a performance review for a pay increase if your just working at heb loading dock and want an extra 20 cents an hour.

in which case, you would just say, hey boss, i need more loot. can you think about it? thanks.

[Wild Cobra]

Yeah, thanks for that extra 8.60 a month.
Depends on your marginal tax rate and state tax. Oregon is at 9%. Social Security and Medicare are 7.65%.

10%: 10% +9% +7.65% = 26.65% = $6.36 net monthly

15%: 15% +9% +7.65% = 31.65% = $5.92 net monthly

25%: 25% +9% +7.65% = 41.65% = $5.06 net monthly

28%: 28% +9% +7.65% = 44.65% = $4.80 net monthly

31%: 31% +9% +7.65% = 47.65% = $4.54 net monthly

[TDMVPDPOY]

you usually ask for a raise after 2-3 yrs, not 1 year...you dont even have any leverage over someone whose willing to walk in and do the job at ur current salary...

you better be good at sucking dick.....

[clambake]

this guy got a nickel raise. please stop suggesting that he/she should wait 2 to 3 years to ask for a raise.

[Jacob1983]

Trust me, if you saw what I did and how hard I worked at my job, you would be saying to me "you deserve a raise". I'm tired of being Mr. Reliable and Mr. Dependable and not getting any props or recongition. Do you know how many days of work I've missed since I've been at this job? Only one. And this is a job, not a career. And it's not at Wendy's or Whataburger either. It's retail. I deserve a raise for being Target's monkey boy. I do more work in a day at Target than most people do in a week at Target. You would be amazed of how many times I've covered people's asses at that place. You would also be amazed at how many times I've stayed late in order to get things done. I want some damn recognition for my hard work and dedication. :greedy

[mrose31]

Not sure if this would work for your job but if you want a raise it might help to not just ask for more money especially after only 1 year, but to ask if you can take on more responsiblities so that you could soon get a pay increase. Also most companies have a certain time of the year they give increase usually between January and March. You may have only got a 5 cent increase because during annual reviews you had only been there 5 months and you need to wait till that time comes again. I know at my job unless you get a significant promotion you are not going to get a pay raise until January no matter how good you are at your job. Good luck though it is hard for anybody to get a raise right now no matter where you work or at what level.

[Dex]

If Target is anything like Academy, you're fuct.

[CosmicCowboy]

Yeah, if you are in a "national chain" retail job you are screwed. I'm surprised you are even getting 40 hours. Your boss is constrained by corporate salary guidelines no matter how hard you work. If you are "tired" of your job there are 100 other people that want it.

[Jacob1983]

I'm just tired of being Target's bitch and not getting the respect and recognition I deserve. And I'm not lying or bragging, they really do rely on me a lot maybe a little too much. I can't quit it because I need the money to pay off my evil college loans. I just want what I feel I deserve. Nothing wrong with wanting that.

Actually, I only get about 34 or 35 a week. You can't get 40 hours at Target. It's against the rules because they will not pay for overtime at all unless you're a boss I think. And I never said I wasn't grateful for the job. I know a lot of people don't have jobs and that sucks. However, that has nothing to do with my situation.

[CosmicCowboy]

You might as well start looking for another job if you feel that way.

[gatoloco]

I'm just tired of being Target's bitch and not getting the respect and recognition I deserve. And I'm not lying or bragging, they really do rely on me a lot maybe a little too much. I can't quit it because I need the money to pay off my evil college loans. I just want what I feel I deserve. Nothing wrong with wanting that.

Actually, I only get about 34 or 35 a week. You can't get 40 hours at Target. It's against the rules because they will not pay for overtime at all unless you're a boss I think. And I never said I wasn't grateful for the job. I know a lot of people don't have jobs and that sucks. However, that has nothing to do with my situation.


you sound like costco material buddy. it's time you stepped up into the big leagues.

[I. Hustle]

Jokes on you. I'm your boss!!!!!

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1278/542650447_1d8b8249ae.jpg

[Extra Stout]

I'm just tired of being Target's bitch and not getting the respect and recognition I deserve. And I'm not lying or bragging, they really do rely on me a lot maybe a little too much. I can't quit it because I need the money to pay off my evil college loans. I just want what I feel I deserve. Nothing wrong with wanting that.

Actually, I only get about 34 or 35 a week. You can't get 40 hours at Target. It's against the rules because they will not pay for overtime at all unless you're a boss I think. And I never said I wasn't grateful for the job. I know a lot of people don't have jobs and that sucks. However, that has nothing to do with my situation.
This is what's really bad about how the young generation was raised. They were taught that each of them is super-valuable and special and deserves the sun, moon, and stars. They were told that each of them is a dynamo of creativity and wonderful ideas. They were filled with boundless optimism that anything their heart desires is within reach.

But then reality hits and they find themselves working a menial unskilled-labor job at Target, while they have tens of thousands of dollars in student loans to pay off from an education that gained them nothing. And they look around them and see that compared to a lot of their peers, they're one of the lucky ones. This is not how it was supposed to turn out.

So maybe wrapping these kids up in tissue paper and bubble wrap for 22 years wasn't the best way to prepare them for life as adults.

Anyway, I don't know about a raise, since to Target worker bees are a dime a dozen, but given how high turnover is at a place like that, if you work hard and learn to toot your own horn a little bit, maybe you'll end up as an assistant manager and crack $30K with benefits.

[DarkReign]

^ more or less.

[ashbeeigh]

Why not look for something higher up on the food chain? Even if it means you don't get a pay raise you get a better title and more experience for when you do/if you move out of retail. At a nationwide chain like Target I'm sure there's some type of set guideline as to wages and salaries. I still stand by my talk to co-workers bit, but I'm also throwing out the "look for something better" within in the company and your store. That's what I did.

[Geezerballer]

You have been doing a job that you agreed to do for the wage you agreed to take right? All that’s changed is time. If you want more money, become more valuable. If you can make the case that you are more valuable to the company, then make it based on the dollars you generate (or save).

The most tactful way to approach it is to ask for a minute w/ your boss. Tell him that you believe you are ready for a more demanding position that will pay more money and ask him if he agrees. If he doesn’t, ask him how you can improve your performance so that you will be worth more money to the company.

You need to get over the idea that you are worth more money just because you’ve been showing up on time for a year. If your boss thinks he can replace you for what he’s paying you today, it’s his job to keep labor costs down.

[marini martini]

What courses did you take in college, to qualify your working at Target?

[I. Hustle]

Marini always asks me for a raise... if ya know what I mean.

[Bender]

I once got a 5 cents an hour raise, but it was back in 1979

[Thunder Dan]

you realize that Target could go outside and throw a rock and hit 10 people that could take and do your job for less money. Especially in rough times, there are people desperately looking for jobs at places like Target. Don't shoot yourself in the foot by ruining the job you have.



This is what's really bad about how the young generation was raised. They were taught that each of them is super-valuable and special and deserves the sun, moon, and stars. They were told that each of them is a dynamo of creativity and wonderful ideas. They were filled with boundless optimism that anything their heart desires is within reach.

But then reality hits and they find themselves working a menial unskilled-labor job at Target, while they have tens of thousands of dollars in student loans to pay off from an education that gained them nothing. And they look around them and see that compared to a lot of their peers, they're one of the lucky ones. This is not how it was supposed to turn out.

So maybe wrapping these kids up in tissue paper and bubble wrap for 22 years wasn't the best way to prepare them for life as adults.

Anyway, I don't know about a raise, since to Target worker bees are a dime a dozen, but given how high turnover is at a place like that, if you work hard and learn to toot your own horn a little bit, maybe you'll end up as an assistant manager and crack $30K with benefits.

it's soccer mentality. I would bet that the OP played soccer as a young kid. It's the reason the generation of 15-21 year olds have so many problems. It can all be blamed on the soccer culture of protecting kids from failure.

[Drachen]

Depends on your marginal tax rate and state tax. Oregon is at 9%. Social Security and Medicare are 7.65%.

10%: 10% +9% +7.65% = 26.65% = $6.36 net monthly

15%: 15% +9% +7.65% = 31.65% = $5.92 net monthly

25%: 25% +9% +7.65% = 41.65% = $5.06 net monthly

28%: 28% +9% +7.65% = 44.65% = $4.80 net monthly

31%: 31% +9% +7.65% = 47.65% = $4.54 net monthly

I am sure that in your calculations you came across the amount that I typed. It is the gross amount.

[Jacob1983]

FYI, I was born in 1983 so I don't consider myself to be a part of the current lazy generation. I actually do have experience in warehouse work. I worked two summers at Blockbuster Warehouse. I also worked about 10 months as a stocker at a clothing store. I know what warehouse work is like. Warehouse work is straight up manual labor. I always thought that hard work and dedication were suppose to pay off at a job. I guess I was wrong. Besides, there's nothing wrong with asking for a raise. The worst possible outcome is that they say no. When you work hard and are dedicated, you deserve some props and recognition in my opinion. Every time that I stay late, I never hear anyone say "hey, thanks for staying late" or "I appreciate you staying late and finishing up here".

[spursfan09]

I guess my question is, what is your degree in and what exactly do you do at target? What's your job title.

[Sense]

I get 16/hr and I want a raise.

qq.

[florige]

FYI, I was born in 1983 so I don't consider myself to be a part of the current lazy generation. I actually do have experience in warehouse work. I worked two summers at Blockbuster Warehouse. I also worked about 10 months as a stocker at a clothing store. I know what warehouse work is like. Warehouse work is straight up manual labor. I always thought that hard work and dedication were suppose to pay off at a job. I guess I was wrong. Besides, there's nothing wrong with asking for a raise. The worst possible outcome is that they say no. When you work hard and are dedicated, you deserve some props and recognition in my opinion. Every time that I stay late, I never hear anyone say "hey, thanks for staying late" or "I appreciate you staying late and finishing up here".



Okay I had to edit my entire post because I see you already did college. What kind of degree did you get?

[phyzik]

So you work for target from what little I have read from this thread.

Let me tell you a still ongoing story.

About 14 years ago I had a neighbor move in. I was about 16 at the time. He was 16 years my senior. His birthday was yesterday and just turned 44. He is as close to a father figure I have since my biological father passed away just 6 days after the turn of the century.

We drink together, smoke together, you name it. This guy brought me up and taught me about life after my father passed away. In fact, he is now living with me because he is hitting hard times now, the reasons which I dont want to go through but I will say its nothing wrong on his part, he just got divorced.

This guy, when I first met him, was a meat market manager when Albertsons was still in San Antonio. His knowledge as a butcher is unsurpassed as far as Im concerned. These where the days when shit didnt come pre-packaged like you see in Wal-Mart and Target.

When at Albertsons he was banking, but at a price. He was logging regularly 60 hours a week. He was paid salary so didnt make overtime. When Albertsons left San Antonio, he went to work for La Fiesta and Handy-Andy simultaniously. Again, he was busting his ass.

After a few months, he went to work for Wal-Mart. The most evil corporation in this world in my opinion. He never got close to making the money he made at Albertsons. Whats worse, they kept cutting his hours short (which they still do today according to friends who still work their, and it will be even worse come soon).

He is now working for H-E-B. He has gone from meat cutter to Manager to department director and back to meat cutter. Still making less than he ever made at Albertsons.

Still in a DEAD END JOB!

Bottom line, your fucked if you stay there. Its a dead end fucking JOB. Its not a CAREER. Trust me, he and I have seen friends (and "enemies") try and make a career in grocery and ALL of them have failed.

your in a dead end JOB.

get a CAREER!

Its taken 16 years to finally convince this guy to let it go. He has been too comfortable in the community of shopping centers because he was scared of something "different". Those jobs should be for summer jobs and college kids only. Dont get stuck in the trap. You will regret it. Trust me.

There's a reason this guy is forced to stay with me now. He still works for H-E-B but is trying to look someplace else.

It's sad if you think $15/hr is considered decent pay. If thats the case, your at a JOB. not a CAREER. Thats whats wrong with young people today.

I have no problem saying how much I make, just so you can get an idea. I started a CAREER 2 years ago. I STARTED at $17 an hour with hardly any experience. I now make, 1 year later, close to $22 an hour and am up for another raise come March which should put me close to $25 an hour.

Im not rich by any means, but I would like to think thats pretty good money after only 2 years.

[florige]

^^^^ Unless you are upper management like store mgr, or assistant store mgr. retail places like that are just for college kids trying to make a few extra bucks. Those places could really give a crap about you if you aren't anyone in upper management.

[baseline bum]

Your ONLY chance to get a raise at a retail chain like that is to show leadership skills and move up to supervisor. Being successful just from working hard is an American myth. How hard you work doesn't mean jack shit to a place like Target because a monkey can do the job; all you are to them is a warm body. Forget about working harder; work smarter. Teach your co-workers how to do their jobs better without pissing them off. Kiss the boss' ass; I know it sounds cynical as hell, but pretending to be your boss' friend and that you give a shit about his kids, his new car, etc. is effective. Show a high level of energy and pretend you actually enjoy what you do and like the people you're around.

Or if you don't want to do all of that, work just hard enough to not get fired. To be honest, doing the minimal level of work is a better idea IMO there, because being a good supervisor/manager is a hell of a lot harder than being a good worker bee. You might get an extra $1-$1.50 an hour, but you'll be way more busy unless you just don't give a shit (in which case you'll be fired quickly).

[Jacob1983]

I have a BS in psychology. I had a passion for cartography but I wasn't sure I could do it because of all the math in it. I will admit that I made a million mistakes during my college experience but I'm not going to be able to use a time machine to change the past or get a do-over. I hear what you're saying. A lot of what you're saying is 100 percent. It's sad that it's true though. It's sad that a lot of people get ahead in their jobs and careers because they bullshit their way to the top and aren't really hard working or dedicated. It does suck when you're hard working and dedicated and no one gives a shit. It makes you feel like you wasted a lot of energy and time. My whole life I've been brainwashed that hard work pays off. Sad but true. My parents have worked hard their entire adult lives and they've always been in the lower part of the middle class so I guess hard work doesn't pay off.

[PM5K]

Your ONLY chance to get a raise at a retail chain like that is to show leadership skills and move up to supervisor. Being successful just from working hard is an American myth. How hard you work doesn't mean jack shit to a place like Target because a monkey can do the job; all you are to them is a warm body. Forget about working harder; work smarter. Teach your co-workers how to do their jobs better without pissing them off. Kiss the boss' ass; I know it sounds cynical as hell, but pretending to be your boss' friend and that you give a shit about his kids, his new car, etc. is effective. Show a high level of energy and pretend you actually enjoy what you do and like the people you're around.

Or if you don't want to do all of that, work just hard enough to not get fired. To be honest, doing the minimal level of work is a better idea IMO there, because being a good supervisor/manager is a hell of a lot harder than being a good worker bee. You might get an extra $1-$1.50 an hour, but you'll be way more busy unless you just don't give a shit (in which case you'll be fired quickly).

I can't agree with this verbatim, but in general I agree with this.

[Wild Cobra]

I am sure that in your calculations you came across the amount that I typed. It is the gross amount.
Yes, I based it on 2080 hr/year at the $0.05 raise.

[DarkReign]

your first mistake was asking for career advice from a bunch of losers who post on spurstalk.com day and night when they should be working

qft

[exstatic]

I have a BS in psychology. I had a passion for cartography but I wasn't sure I could do it because of all the math in it. I will admit that I made a million mistakes during my college experience but I'm not going to be able to use a time machine to change the past or get a do-over. I hear what you're saying. A lot of what you're saying is 100 percent. It's sad that it's true though. It's sad that a lot of people get ahead in their jobs and careers because they bullshit their way to the top and aren't really hard working or dedicated. It does suck when you're hard working and dedicated and no one gives a shit. It makes you feel like you wasted a lot of energy and time. My whole life I've been brainwashed that hard work pays off. Sad but true. My parents have worked hard their entire adult lives and they've always been in the lower part of the middle class so I guess hard work doesn't pay off.

Unless you have a REALLY DUMB boss, ass kissing alone won't get it done. However, if you have two employees with the same work level, the ass kisser will likely advance faster.

I agree with others who say you're unlikely to get a raise in your current position at this time. See if you can work up the food chain to a better paying position. In other words, as about a promotion, not a raise.

[Jacob1983]

I asked for the raise today. I got a flat out no. He said that Target has strict policies about raises and the 5 cent raise that I received back in April was my raise for the year. After he said no, I told him that I wanted to work a couple of night shifts a week so I could make more money. If I work a night shift, I will make 10.55 an hour for every time that I work a night shift. You get 2 dollars more if you work the night shift.

[Extra Stout]

FYI, I was born in 1983 so I don't consider myself to be a part of the current lazy generation.
You're a "millennial;" not part of the "lazy" generation. The stereotype of the "millennial" is a kid who was shuttled around his whole childhood from soccer practice to recital to whatever other activities he was in. His whole life was planned and structured. He was insulated by his parents from any risks whatsoever of getting hurt. His self-esteem was held as sacrosanct. He got trophies for effort. He was never allowed to fail. He spent 18 years encased in bubble wrap.

His parents told him he was special and uniquely creative and nothing bad would ever happen to him as long as he worked hard.

Was that you?

[bus driver]

did he get the raise?

[Mad Bonner]

You want advice on getting a raise? First you tease it then rub it a little maybe kiss it some...


hold on I'll be back

[gatoloco]

You're a "millennial;" not part of the "lazy" generation. The stereotype of the "millennial" is a kid who was shuttled around his whole childhood from soccer practice to recital to whatever other activities he was in. His whole life was planned and structured. He was insulated by his parents from any risks whatsoever of getting hurt. His self-esteem was held as sacrosanct. He got trophies for effort. He was never allowed to fail. He spent 18 years encased in bubble wrap.

His parents told him he was special and uniquely creative and nothing bad would ever happen to him as long as he worked hard.

Was that you?



cool, what's your nickname for current toddlers!

[ashbeeigh]

And I thought I had a hard time getting a job with a BA in psychology. Target? Seriously? Please at least tell me you're going to Grad school at the same time.

[Mad Bonner]

And I thought I had a hard time getting a job with a BA in psychology. Target? Seriously? Please at least tell me you're going to Grad school at the same time.


Stuck up judgemental bitch. You are pissing me off.

[ashbeeigh]

Stuck up judgemental bitch. You are pissing me off.

I hope you're being sarcastic, with a name like Mad Bonner.

I don't know you well enough to tell.

[Mad Bonner]

I hope you're being sarcastic, with a name like Mad Bonner.

I don't know you well enough to tell.


But you know me some?

[ashbeeigh]

But you know me some?

from the 1-2 posts in this thread. That's about it. Whatever. If you're calling me a bitch that's cool. You wouldn't be the first person to call me one.

But, I'm just going along with the same judgmental attitude of the thread.

[LnGrrrR]

Brother, paying you, your benefits and your training time...if you quit now your company would actually have to assign your employment a negative value.

Actually, that would give him some negotiating value. If his loss would give the company a net negative value, then it would behoove the company to keep him on, even at a higher rate.

I've never had to ask for a raise, being in the military, but I shouldn't think you woudl offend your employer by discussing means in which you could make more money. I would think, if you highlight your willingness to take on more responsibility and prove that you have handled the responsibility you have now, that it could be productive. The key would seem to be proving to your boss that you are able to work at a higher level equal to higher pay.

[LnGrrrR]

You have been doing a job that you agreed to do for the wage you agreed to take right? All that’s changed is time. If you want more money, become more valuable. If you can make the case that you are more valuable to the company, then make it based on the dollars you generate (or save).

The most tactful way to approach it is to ask for a minute w/ your boss. Tell him that you believe you are ready for a more demanding position that will pay more money and ask him if he agrees. If he doesn’t, ask him how you can improve your performance so that you will be worth more money to the company.

You need to get over the idea that you are worth more money just because you’ve been showing up on time for a year. If your boss thinks he can replace you for what he’s paying you today, it’s his job to keep labor costs down.

Good point. Have you initiated any programs that have saved time/money? Think smal.. maybe it's something as simple as seeing something that didn't make sense, and by fixing it, you streamlined it or made it more efficient. Rack your brain for things you've done like this and file them away.

[Mad Bonner]

from the 1-2 posts in this thread. That's about it. Whatever. If you're calling me a bitch that's cool. You wouldn't be the first person to call me one.

But, I'm just going along with the same judgmental attitude of the thread.


Follower.

[gatoloco]

target is for old people, teenagers, and just out of work executives.

get a clue and start reaching for the stars instead of reaching for a back support belt.

[LnGrrrR]

You're a "millennial;" not part of the "lazy" generation. The stereotype of the "millennial" is a kid who was shuttled around his whole childhood from soccer practice to recital to whatever other activities he was in. His whole life was planned and structured. He was insulated by his parents from any risks whatsoever of getting hurt. His self-esteem was held as sacrosanct. He got trophies for effort. He was never allowed to fail. He spent 18 years encased in bubble wrap.

His parents told him he was special and uniquely creative and nothing bad would ever happen to him as long as he worked hard.

Was that you?

Cmon ES... you should know better than to believe that all Millenials are stereotypes.

[LnGrrrR]

target is for old people, teenagers, and just out of work executives.

get a clue and start reaching for the stars instead of reaching for a back support belt.

I always feel bad for old people working at Walmarts, Target, etc... I'd like to think they're not doing it because they have to, but only because they would be bored at home and like to have a little extra income. I'm sure that's not the case in 90% of the instances I see them working though.

[ploto]

And I thought I had a hard time getting a job with a BA in psychology. Target? Seriously? Please at least tell me you're going to Grad school at the same time.

I could have sworn you worked for West Telemarketing when you first graduated.

[Extra Stout]

Cmon ES... you should know better than to believe that all Millenials are stereotypes.

That's why I asked if it sounded like him. Maybe he was encased in foam peanuts rather than wound in bubble wrap. You can't generalize.

[LnGrrrR]

That's why I asked if it sounded like him. Maybe he was encased in foam peanuts rather than wound in bubble wrap. You can't generalize.

Hardy har har ;)

The only problem with that belief, I feel, is no matter HOW supportive parents are, kids have no reason to hold back cruelty. Even the most supportive mom won't be able to get other kids in school to point out the flaws in their child.

[ashbeeigh]

I could have sworn you worked for West Telemarketing when you first graduated.

Oh, I did. And I did have a hard time finding a job.

But I never gave up finding something in my field. I even thought about staying at West doing training or HR stuff.

[Jacob1983]

I never played soccer as a kid. And my parents never once told me that bad stuff wouldn't happen to me. Why the fuck would parents tell their kids that? Of course, bad stuff is going to happen to you in life. My dad has this saying about life. He's always telling me that life isn't a fairy tale.
My parents did shelter to me as a kid but that's because they're very religious and old fashioned. They didn't plan my life out. If they had planned my life out, they would have saved up money for me to go to college and I wouldn't have had to borrow almost 40K from the government and other places. And no, they didn't give me trophies for effort.

And yes, I do have a BA in psychology but that doesn't guarantee me a job in the field or a high paying job. People don't get it. They think that if you are a college graduate that you're suppose to be smart enough to land a job in your field the second you graduate from college. Bullshit. That's not how this fucked up world works. Sometimes, you have to do shit you don't want to do in order to survive. Sometimes, you have to make a sacrifice and work at a damn retail store for a while until you find a good paying job in your field. That's what I've done.

[ashbeeigh]

And yes, I do have a BA in psychology but that doesn't guarantee me a job in the field or a high paying job. People don't get it. They think that if you are a college graduate that you're suppose to be smart enough to land a job in your field the second you graduate from college. Bullshit. That's not how this fucked up world works. Sometimes, you have to do shit you don't want to do in order to survive. Sometimes, you have to make a sacrifice and work at a damn retail store for a while until you find a good paying job in your field. That's what I've done.

I wasn't saying it was bad. I was just shocked. But this wasn't about your lack of college degree type job. It was about your "raise."

It took me 7 months to get my non-profit job with a BA in psychology. And I still have friends that are looking for jobs that are certified teachers. It sucks. I feel you. Like ploto said, I worked at West for a bit. So, I have no room to be a judgmental bitch.

[katyon6th]

I'm loving all the career and life advice people are spouting off. Some of you assholes are so judgemental.

I agree with one poster in saying promotion over raise since you work for a major retailer and you've already had one raise this year. Have you checked if your company is hiring for any lead or supervisor positions?

[CubanMustGo]

my advice is that ashbeeigh is a high and mighty bitch

There are lots of 'high and mighty bitches' in this thread.

[I. Hustle]

And yes, I do have a BA in psychology but that doesn't guarantee me a job in the field or a high paying job. People don't get it. They think that if you are a college graduate that you're suppose to be smart enough to land a job in your field the second you graduate from college. Bullshit. That's not how this fucked up world works. Sometimes, you have to do shit you don't want to do in order to survive. Sometimes, you have to make a sacrifice and work at a damn retail store for a while until you find a good paying job in your field. That's what I've done.

I wasn't saying it was bad. I was just shocked. But this wasn't about your lack of college degree type job. It was about your "raise."

It took me 7 months to get my non-profit job with a BA in psychology. And I still have friends that are looking for jobs that are certified teachers. It sucks. I feel you. Like ploto said, I worked at West for a bit. So, I have no room to be a judgmental bitch.[/QUOTE]


Aren't you a telemarketer?

[ashbeeigh]

my advice is that ashbeeigh is a high and mighty bitch

I take that as a compliment.





Aren't you a telemarketer?

No.

[I. Hustle]

But you do work for West right?

[angel_luv]

But you do work for West right?

What if she did? Working at West is a thousand times better than bumming of your parents and/ or the government.

[ashbeeigh]

But you do work for West right?

No. You're so 2000-late.

[to21]

So Ash is not only racist but she's stuck up also?

:tu

[Jacob1983]

I asked my boss about doing the night shift once or twice a week and he said it would probably be okay. If I do work the night shift, I will make 2 more dollars per hour than I do right now. 1 night shift and 4 day shifts or 2 night shifts and 3 days shifts a week will be better than working 5 day shifts a week.

If I had it my way, no one would work in stores especially in retail. Honestly, when you think about it, no one really likes working at a retail or grocery store unless they're a boss making decent money. That's why whenever I go to a retail store or grocery store, I always try not to be a dick to the people that work. I do that because they probably hate working there and being a douchebag to them is just gonna make their time at their job more miserable and painful. You also shouldn't be mean to people that work at restaurants or fast food places because they could fuck up your food or your drink.

[ashbeeigh]

It took me 7 months to get my non-profit job with a BA in psychology. And I still have friends that are looking for jobs that are certified teachers. It sucks. I feel you. Like ploto said, I worked at West for a bit. So, I have no room to be a judgmental bitch.

[to21]

I asked my boss about doing the night shift once or twice a week and he said it would probably be okay. If I do work the night shift, I will make 2 more dollars per hour than I do right now. 1 night shift and 4 day shifts or 2 night shifts and 3 days shifts a week will be better than working 5 day shifts a week.Bro....that's called shift differential. Not many would consider it a raise.

[angel_luv]

I agree with Jacob at being nice to people who work in retail. I am all the more understanding of and kind towards clerks now that I myself work in retail.

[angel_luv]

Bro....that's called shift differential. Not many would consider it a raise.

Hey, if he is making more money and is happy with his hours then :toast congrats Jacob on the happy resolution you found!

[to21]

Hey, if he is making more money and is happy with his hours then :toast congrats Jacob on the happy resolution you found!All I'm saying is working doing the same job at a later time of the day for a higher rate does not a raise make.

[angel_luv]

All I'm saying is working doing the same job at a later time of the day for a higher rate does not a raise make.

You are correct. But he did find a way to get more money ( every little bit helps) when he was denied a raise. So I give him props. :)

[to21]

You are correct. But he did find a way to get more money ( every little bit helps) when he was denied a raise. So I give him props. :)I agree, as long as he doesn't have to rearrange his life to work at night.

[katyon6th]

So, I have no room to be a judgmental bitch.

Yet you had no problem acting like one until someone called you out.

[baseline bum]

I asked my boss about doing the night shift once or twice a week and he said it would probably be okay. If I do work the night shift, I will make 2 more dollars per hour than I do right now. 1 night shift and 4 day shifts or 2 night shifts and 3 days shifts a week will be better than working 5 day shifts a week.


That's good to hear, as long as it's not graveyard. Graveyard can do really funny things to your body and your concept of time. It's ok in the short term, but it really catches up with you after a few months. Plus, people give you really weird looks when you're at the store buying a 6-pack at 8:00AM. :lol


If I had it my way, no one would work in stores especially in retail. Honestly, when you think about it, no one really likes working at a retail or grocery store unless they're a boss making decent money. That's why whenever I go to a retail store or grocery store, I always try not to be a dick to the people that work. I do that because they probably hate working there and being a douchebag to them is just gonna make their time at their job more miserable and painful. You also shouldn't be mean to people that work at restaurants or fast food places because they could fuck up your food or your drink.

Most people don't really like their jobs; that's why they have to pay you to come in. I guess just stick it out and hope our economy gets on track soon so you can leave that place.

[Wild Cobra]

Graveyard can do really funny things to your body and your concept of time. It's ok in the short term, but it really catches up with you after a few months. Plus, people give you really weird looks when you're at the store buying a 6-pack at 8:00AM.
I have always preferred graveyard shifts. Working 11 PM to 7:30 AM now. I have no problem with the body or sleep aspect of it. After a few months, you get used to it. The day concept sometimes messes me up. Just the other day, I thought it was Sunday when it was Saturday.

I hate day shift. Here in Portland, it's already dark at 5:30 PM in the winter. I love the sun. I cannot stand going to work when it's just starting to get light outside, then get home after dark. It's so depressing to me.

[ashbeeigh]

Yet you had no problem acting like one until someone called you out.

Just like everyone else in this thread. :sleep

[baseline bum]

I have always preferred graveyard shifts. Working 11 PM to 7:30 AM now. I have no problem with the body or sleep aspect of it. After a few months, you get used to it. The day concept sometimes messes me up. Just the other day, I thought it was Sunday when it was Saturday.

I hate day shift. Here in Portland, it's already dark at 5:30 PM in the winter. I love the sun. I cannot stand going to work when it's just starting to get light outside, then get home after dark. It's so depressing to me.

I guess some people are wired differently. When I did graveyard it stopped feeling like there were individual days and more like one continuous never-ending stream. I was happy as hell to transfer into my company's dayshift after a few months, even though it meant dealing with LA rush-hour traffic each way. My brother had a similar experience. I felt the exact opposite to you though; the first couple of months were nothing for me. After about the fourth month my body just felt tired all the time, but was quickly re-invigorated the second I moved to 9-to-5.

[Jacob1983]

The night shift isn't exactly what you would call a night shift. It starts at 3:30am and they usually leave anywhere from 10:30am to 12pm. The night shift use to start at around 10:30pm but they changed to 3:30am in January. Right now, I'm working 2pm to 9:30pm shifts so I've gotten use to staying up late and sleeping in. I think I should be able to handle it because I worked 12 hour shifts at Blockbuster Warehouse for 2 summers when I was going to college. When I was doing that, I would usually wake up at 4 or 4:30am because I had to be inside the factory by 5:30am.

I'm probably gonna jizz my pants when the economy and unemployment rate get better. Yep, I will be that excited. Some people might like working at stores like Target and Wal Mart but not me. It's not my dream, passion, or life goal to work at Target for the rest of my life. I didn't go to college for 5 and a half years and borrow almost 40K to get stuck working at Target. I really hope this is just a bump in the road and not long term.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

I guess some people are wired differently. When I did graveyard it stopped feeling like there were individual days and more like one continuous never-ending stream. I was happy as hell to transfer into my company's dayshift after a few months, even though it meant dealing with LA rush-hour traffic each way. My brother had a similar experience. I felt the exact opposite to you though; the first couple of months were nothing for me. After about the fourth month my body just felt tired all the time, but was quickly re-invigorated the second I moved to 9-to-5.

When you work graveyard and most of your light comes from flourescents then you lose one of your major zeitgebers (markers for circadian rhythm). When that happens people generally begin to go onto a 25 hour day so. I myself will go onto a 28 hour day.

If you use a light box then it will help you maintain your typical circadian cycle.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

The night shift isn't exactly what you would call a night shift. It starts at 3:30am and they usually leave anywhere from 10:30am to 12pm. The night shift use to start at around 10:30pm but they changed to 3:30am in January. Right now, I'm working 2pm to 9:30pm shifts so I've gotten use to staying up late and sleeping in. I think I should be able to handle it because I worked 12 hour shifts at Blockbuster Warehouse for 2 summers when I was going to college. When I was doing that, I would usually wake up at 4 or 4:30am because I had to be inside the factory by 5:30am.

I'm probably gonna jizz my pants when the economy and unemployment rate get better. Yep, I will be that excited. Some people might like working at stores like Target and Wal Mart but not me. It's not my dream, passion, or life goal to work at Target for the rest of my life. I didn't go to college for 5 and a half years and borrow almost 40K to get stuck working at Target. I really hope this is just a bump in the road and not long term.

Thats a 2nd shift or swing shift.

And you might want to seriously think about moving if you have a BA and can only get a job a target. USAA for example is hiring all kinds of people that will pay you a hit ton more and have a degree as the only major requirement.

Sounds like your issue is either location or your ability to market yourself.