With an economy where unemployment is at an all-time high, it’s scary to think of negotiating your earnings. You should be happy you have a job, right? Not necessarily.

For many that have been working in a career for a long time or for someone that has skills unlike his or her’s colleagues, a raise shouldn’t be seen as unreasonable. It’s important that the right timing and location for the conversation is orchestrated in such a way that one’s boss feels convinced and is in a place where “No” isn’t an answer.

Do Your Research

Before approaching your boss, do some research on average incomes of someone with your skill set and experience in your career. This will give you an idea of what you can reasonably aim for. Perhaps asking for added perks such as vacation days or an office instead of higher pay can be used too.

Know Your Worth

Of course, doing your research coincides with this notion, but also preparing yourself for working somewhere else is not out of the question. Not feeling like you’re appreciated at your job may reduce productivity and in turn, hurt your business. This is a great point to address during your meeting with your boss.

Evaluate Your Career Goals

Ultimately, after having your meeting with your boss asking for a raise, you may want to re-evaluate what your goals are in terms of your career. If the meeting perhaps didn’t go as well as planned, it may be time to switch careers or employers. However, if the meeting did go well (Congratulations!), begin creating new goals foro the future for yourself. This will give you something to work toward and make working a more exciting, rewarding experience for yourself.