By Jonathan Winnegrad, ABO-AC, NCLE-AC
In an effort to pay it forward, I would like to over the next several articles explain several key lessons that I have learned in my time in eye care. Today I will address how to ask for a raise. This can be invaluable if you find yourself consistently bringing more to the table than you are compensated for.
In the early 2000s, I was thrilled to transition from working in the toy department of a large retail store to becoming a licensed optician in Tennessee. I held my head high each day, proud of my new role and the significant pay increase that came with it. But my joy was short-lived.
About a month in, I discovered that other licensed opticians hired by my employer were earning five dollars an hour more than I was. To make matters worse, I overheard my direct supervisor bragging about how inexpensively she had hired me. Feeling underpaid and undervalued, I decided to email her boss to request a raise, explaining that I was earning less than the market rate for my role. However, in my haste, I accidentally sent the email to the entire distribution list, reaching every optician in the state of Tennessee. My email outlined how diligently I worked and expressed my desire to be compensated fairly. Naturally, my immediate supervisor informed me that her boss was furious and was on his way to fire me.
When he arrived at my location, I was so flustered that I adamantly refused the raise he offered, thinking it was the best way to salvage the situation. Years later, I learned from him that he hadn’t been aware of how low my pay was and had no intention of firing me—he simply wanted to correct the oversight.
Looking back, I realize that this was not the ideal way to ask for a raise. In the decades since, I’ve gained a much better understanding of how to handle delicate situations like these.
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Prepare a Slam Dunk Case:
- Document Achievements: Gather evidence of your contributions and successes, such as increased sales, customer satisfaction, or any positive feedback. Highlight any additional responsibilities you've taken on.
- Research Market Rates: Find out the typical salary range for opticians with your experience and qualifications in your area.
- Know Your Value: Reflect on how your unique skills and experiences benefit your practice and how your role has evolved.
- Timing is Everything:
- Timing: Aim for a time when the business is stable and not experiencing major challenges. Obviously, hold off if you are in a performance slump or undergoing major staffing changes.
- Request a Meeting: Ask for a formal meeting with your supervisor to discuss your role and compensation. Seek a time that works well for them.
- Present Your Case Professionally:
- Be Clear as Crown Glass: Clearly explain why you believe a raise is warranted, be respectful and thankful in manner. Focus on your accomplishments and how they align with the practice’s goals.
- Be Open to Discussion: Be prepared for negotiation. Your employer may not be ready right away or have the necessary budget. Be understanding.
