When it comes to asking for a raise, there is a simple process you should follow.

1. First and foremost, do your research. You may feel undervalued, underpaid and deserving of more money, but what do others in your field make? You may discover that you are paid fairly. Do some investigating at sights like salary.com and Service Canada’s site labourmarketinformation.ca. Keep in mind that salaries can vary from region to region.
   Don’t forget to look at your case from the company’s perspective. Are they in a financial situation which would allow them to afford a pay increase? Make sure that you are not asking for something that is financially unrealistic.
2. Set a target salary increase. Establish how much you think you are worth and how much of a pay increase range you would like. Keep in mind that the average salary increase in Canada for 2008 is 3.7%. If you set yourself a range then you will remain flexible if your boss offers you something better than what you are currently getting, even if it is not most ideal. This will also provide you with a bare minimum you are willing to accept.
3. Be flexible. Being flexible not only entails being flexible with the pay increase you are willing to accept, but with what forms your raise may come in. Be open to any of the following: flextime, more personal days, payment for unused vacation, incentive compensation, stock options, extra vacation, education benefits, and even compensation for time spent outside of work at conventions, trade shows or seminars. A raise need not come in the form of money. Decide what may suit your lifestyle best; perhaps the extra week at the lake every summer would be worth more to you in the end.
4. Set a meeting with your boss. It is best to allow your boss to choose a time to meet, preferably when she is not busy and will have time to listen to you. Request the meeting when she is in a good mood and if possible, after you have been praised for a job well done. Start off on the right foot with the whole process.
   Remember that even though you can schedule this meeting with your boss at any time of year, this process is relevant at your yearly review as well. Do not neglect to be prepared for your review in order to get the most out of it as possible. You should also be aware of when budgeting occurs in your company as this is a time when salaries are often reviewed.
5. Be prepared. Your boss is not going to want to listen to you ask for more money. Be sure you have a way to sell your case to her. Track your accomplishments. Have you saved the company money, led a successful project, or improved workflow? By presenting your boss with solid data, she will be able to see your true worth. Speak about your accomplishments before you broach the subject of a raise.
   Remember, do not make your request for a raise personal and threaten to leave if you do not get what you want. The outcome of your request is impacted by your professionalism in this meeting.
6. State your case explicitly. Now that you have discussed with your boss your accomplishments and value to the company, be direct. State that you would like to discuss a salary adjustment.
7. Follow up. Understand that your boss will likely not have an answer for you right away. It may be odd if she did. Discuss a good time to follow up, and be sure to do so. Thank your boss for the consideration and be courteous during the whole process.