Whether you are looking to secure a salary increase, a promotion, a lateral move, more flexibility, or something else that makes you feel valued, respected, and optimistic at work, follow these steps to get the results you want:

• Before going into the negotiation try to understand your boss’s perspective. You can get a sense of their priorities by paying attention to the announcements your company makes about business objectives and asking your manager how your work contributes to those goals. Take note of the work you do that specifically supports the priorities you identify.
• You can better position yourself for success by bringing up the topic gradually during one-on-one meetings with your boss and gauging their reaction. If the reaction is positive, consider it a green light to initiate a more serious discussion down the line.  If the reaction is negative, consider it a sign to ask for feedback on your progress or performance.
• When you’re ready to have a more formal negotiation, make sure you think clearly about what you want. Write down your requests in order of priority. Remember that your manager may have more leeway in certain areas than others.
• Go into the meeting with an egalitarian “we are both adults” attitude rather than that of a subordinate asking for a favor. Begin the conversation by reminding your manager that you’ve been building up to this. Be sure to mention how committed you are to growing your career within the company before diving too deep.
• Mention one or two things to highlight specific areas where you’ve made a big contribution. Then transition into what you want.