Sure, we all want to make more money at our jobs, but that’s not always feasible. The next time your big raise doesn’t go through, try aiming for one of these slightly more attainable perks, instead.
1. Flex time
Flex time is about having the option to complete your workload outside the standard 9-to-5, 40 hours per week schedule. Examples of flex time could be working 10 hours a day Monday through Thursday and having Friday off, or working from home two days a week. Flex time is becoming more of the norm than the exception and numerous studies (such as the one in the book Human Autonomy in the Cross-Cultural Context by Marylene Gagne and Devasheesh Bhave) have shown that giving workers the autonomy to define their work hours leads to greater job satisfaction and productivity. When you ask your boss for flex time, cite those studies to help your case. More productivity is a win for her too.
2. More vacation time
Some people are so swamped that they never take the vacation time they are owed, much less ask for more vacation time. But rest is important in order to prevent burnout and a wedding, family emergency or other extenuating circumstances could necessitate the use of more vacation time than is normally allotted. When you ask for more vacation time, be sure that your performance is up to par. Also, if it is a last-minute request or a particularly hectic time for the company, have a plan in place to get certain projects done early and being accessible if needed.
3. Tuition reimbursement
If you would like to go back to school in order to attain a higher position in the company, ask your boss if she would be willing to offer tuition reimbursement. Typically, such arrangements involve the employee agreeing to stay at the company for a certain amount of time in exchange for the tuition reimbursement. Present the idea as an investment in the company. The additional education would increase your skill set, which you would use to augment your work performance.
4. New title
Maybe you’ve noticed the responsibilities and tasks associated with properly doing your job go well beyond your job title or description. Create a new title and job description for yourself that is more appropriate for your actual duties. You’re not asking for more money, just a more accurate title. Your well-documented job performance should be all the evidence you need to convince your employer of the new title. Additionally, the fancier title will look better on your resume and possibly give you a little leverage at your current job for your next salary negotiation.
5. Interns
You could use an extra arm or two some days and maybe hiring an assistant is not feasible. Hiring interns could be a happy medium. The interns are in need of experience and college credit and you need help. Convince your boss that you an extra person or two and devise a plan to hire and manage your new stable of interns. The ultimate goal is to unburden yourself with busy work, so that you can focus on the finer details of your job and be more productive.
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