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There are few work interactions that are more awkward and uncomfortable than asking your boss for a raise. Even though it’s usually a difficult proposition, asking for an increase in wages can significantly reduce the amount of stress in your life and give you a boost in confidence. If you’re thinking about asking for a raise, here are some helpful tips to follow.

Determine whether you should get a raise

Before asking for a raise, you should first determine whether it’s feasible to get one. Look around at what others in your field are making to make a comparison. If you’re already making well above the average, it might be much more difficult to get a raise. However, if you’re making lower, you can use this research as evidence for your boss.

Figure out how much of a raise you want and be reasonable

This number depends on your previous research of what other people are making. You could also use a salary calculator that takes into account the cost of living and other factors when seeing how much people should get paid. Don’t pick an exorbitantly high number you know your employer can’t afford or else it will delegitimize your request.

Make a list of your accomplishments and contributions

Before arranging a meeting with your boss, you should first list all of your contributions to the company and point to your success with data from the company. It becomes a lot easier for a boss to see your worth when you explicitly lay it out.

Set up a meeting with your boss on the subject

You always want to have a specific time and place to speak to your boss about getting a raise. This isn’t something you want to broach while bumping into your boss in the break room. Having a meeting gives you the opportunity to present your case, such as your accomplishments and data about other workers. This will also prove to your boss that you’re serious.

Be confident

Confidence is an important element at any meeting and this one is no different. You don’t want to doubt yourself or beg your boss for a raise. Instead, you want to enter the meeting confident with all your facts and information. Focus on selling the raise rather than pleading with your boss for one.

Be prepared for a “no”

Unfortunately, not every request will end with an enthusiastic yes. So, you need to be prepared for what you’re going to say if you’re rejected. Good follow-up questions to ask include “what will it take for me to get a raise” and “is there a timeline when I can expect a raise.” While you should avoid using “or else I quit” as an ultimatum, if others in your field are making more than you, it may be time to look for a job elsewhere.

Timothy Martinez Jr. is a freelance writer and blogs for a variety of people, including an affordable Tucson Bankruptcy Lawyer.