Firstly have you never had one or are you in dire straights and really need the money! How long have you worked for your employer and what do you actually do. Is it a large company and can they afford to give you an increase! You need to stop and consider these items before you start. Firstly I would make up a list of what my actual income and expenses are - having a realistic look at if you are being extravagant. Then right down what your shortage is and what your needs are. As a manager and if you where to approach me I would also take into consideration your length of service with the company. How many sick days have you taken. What is your actual worth to the company at the end of the day. Are you an asset to them or are you there just to get a pay check. Write down all the functions that you do also beyond your normal call of duty - then before you even approach you boss you need to make a concerted effort to see if you are actually worth it to the company as you stand now or is there some huge room for improvement. Can you say that you have actually done or gone out of your way to further your education, take on or learn a function that is not part of your normal job. Do you sit on the phone all day and or email constantly. Sit and think of anything else you may be able to take on in your daily routine that could alleviate some pressure from your boss. Think about ways to improve service even. Do you come to work everyday with a smile on your face or are you grumpy more often then not. All these things however big or small will play a factor. You basically need to redo your CV and reapply for your position when meeting with your employer to motivate why he should even consider you for an increase.

Learn something new within the company. Ask if there is a training program that you can attend. Is there something that you can do to improve your standard of work. Maybe he is so busy that the only time he actually thinks about things like increases is when it's midnight!

A word of advise - do not go into a meeting on the attack. THERE IS A TIME AND A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING and that could mean the difference between whether you get it or not. Always find a neutral ground to pick your battles and do your homework. Basically you need be able to explain and motivate your reasons as to why an increased should be given to you!

I hope that the advise I have given you will certainly give you a boost to go ahead and ask. Keep me informed. I am interested to know what happens. You need to be happy to be a productive staff member. Oh and don't forget any perks you get. It also needs to be added!