What I Need to Support my Ask for a Raise

Asking for a raise can be a sensitive and important conversation.

Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Reflect on your performance. What have you accomplished in your role? What skills and experience do you have? What additional responsibilities have you taken on? Collect evidence of your accomplishments, such as positive feedback from patients or colleagues or metrics that demonstrate your impact on the practice.
   • For example, you could say something like, “I’ve been able to decrease cancellations in hygiene by 10% and increase hygiene production by 5% over the past year.”
2. Prepare your case. Outline your key points and reasons for deserving a raise. Emphasize your contributions, such as exceptional patient care, improved efficiency, or increased productivity. Be prepared to provide specific examples and metrics to support your claims.
   • For example, you could say something like, “I’ve consistently received positive feedback from patients about my patient care skills. I’m also a certified dental assistant, which allows me to provide a higher level of care to patients.”
3. Research salary benchmarks. What is the average salary range for similar positions in your area? This information will help you establish a reasonable and fair salary expectation.
   • You can use online resources like Dentalpost to research salary benchmarks for scheduling coordinators in your area.
4. Schedule a meeting. Request a meeting with your dentist to discuss your compensation. Choose an appropriate time when they are likely to be available and receptive to your request.
   • You could say something like, “I’d like to schedule a meeting to discuss my compensation. I’ve been with the practice for five years and consistently exceeded expectations in my role. I’m confident I’m underpaid and like to discuss a raise.”
5. Remain professional and respectful. Approach the conversation positively and professionally. Clearly articulate your request, but avoid being confrontational or demanding. Focus on your value to the practice and a raise’s positive impact on your motivation and commitment.
   • You could say something like, “I’m confident that I’m a valuable asset to the practice, and I’m committed to providing excellent patient care. I believe a raise would be a fair and equitable way to recognize my contributions.”
6. Be open to negotiation. Your dentist may have budgetary constraints or other considerations that influence their decision. Be open to discussing alternatives, such as performance-based bonuses, increased benefits, or a phased approach to the raise.
   • For example, you could say something like, “I understand that the practice may have budgetary constraints. I’m open to discussing other forms of compensation, such as a performance-based bonus or increased benefits.”
7. Follow up. Regardless of the outcome, express gratitude for the opportunity to discuss your request. If your dentist needs time to consider the raise, establish a timeline for a follow-up discussion or decision.
   • You could say something like, “Thank you for taking the time to discuss my compensation. I look forward to hearing your decision.”

Remember, approaching the conversation with professionalism, preparation, and a well-constructed case will increase your chances of a successful outcome. Good luck!