I recently read a survey (from Monster.com) that said the number one reason that employees are not satisfied in their current positions is because of compensation. The employers had thought the number one reason would be the relationship between employees and their supervisors. While, we all know there's a good reason to leave your job because of an unfavorable supervisor, we know it's even a better reason to leave to get more money elsewhere. So, how do you get more money without having to leave your job? Here a few tips to help.

Ask "What I can I do to be better at my job?"

Employers don't want someone to just come in, do just what's required of them in their job description, and go home. They're looking to reward those that come in everyday and say, "What can I do today that will better my and my company's performance?" Now, it may be hard to force this kind of enthusiasm when you feel like your employer is not investing the same energy in you. However, what I suggest is to think of the extra work you put in to the company will either be recognized (and compensated) by your employer OR will give you great content for your resume. Your current and future employers will want to see that you are "take charge" king of guy or girl. That you see a problem and think what can you do to solve this issue now and prevent it from happening again.

Ask for a Raise, at the Right Time!

When's a good time to ask for a raise? There are definitely better times than other times. Don't ask for a raise after you've received a negative performance review or the company has just announced layoffs or budget cuts. Do ask for a raise after you've received a positive performance review, just increased your productivity by a measurable amount, or the amount of responsibilities you have were just increased.

How to Ask for a Raise

Whenever you go to your supervisor to ask for a raise, always make sure you are prepared. You should have at least two reasons why you deserve an increase. Just the fact that Sally or Joe down the hall make more than you and have the same job is not enough. You need to point out the inequity and back it up with how great you are and what you bring to the company. Are you a self-starter? Do you try your best and give at least 100%? Do you stay out of office politics and focus on doing a good job? Have you increased sales, productivity, or efficiency recently? Have you implemented a new process that results in savings to the company? What makes you so great? (Note: If you can't answer yes to any of these, either you need more self esteem or you're not a good employee (i.e. shouldn't be asking for a raise)!)

Write down on a piece of paper these reasons and the salary you would like. Ask your supervisor if you can schedule a one-on-one meeting... don't just barge in and lay it out there. Be respectful of his or her time. At your meeting, start by telling your supervisor how you have really enjoyed working for the company and the challenges you have been presented with (if it's true). Then, tell him or her that you would like to request a salary increase and that you feel one is warranted because... [insert all of your legitimate reasons you came up with].

Always be professional. Don't get mad if you're told no. Don't cry, either. Remember, this is business.

When Should You Quit?

If you don't get what you feel you truly deserve and you believe you can get it elsewhere, start the job hunt. Don't quit before getting a new job, though, that would not be the smartest thing to do. Besides, someone currently employed is more attractive that someone unemployed.

When Should You Try to Get a Counter Offer?

If you have found another job and they've offered you more than you make now, but something inside tells you that you'd prefer to stay where you are, then there's no reason why not to bring your offer letter to your supervisor. You MUST be prepared to leave if they do not make you a counter offer, otherwise, you will look silly and not professional.

Take your offer letter to your supervisor and say that you have been presented with this great opportunity at another company but would like to give them the chance to retain you. Again, reinforce that you have really enjoyed working there, that you feel there is potential for growth, and that you would like to stay if your finances were better (if all true, of course).