Most people work to live, not the other way around. And while many people enjoy their jobs, everyone works for money. So, if you feel you’re worth more than you’re being paid, how do you ask for a raise?

The first thing to do is learn what you are worth. That sounds kind of like you are cattle, but if your boss is going to consider your request, you are going to need some facts. Start by determining what kind of salary other people in your field earn. This information can be obtained from different sources.

Do you know people who have a job similar to yours? Consider asking them what they make. Just be sure they are not co-workers. You do not want to stir up trouble at work by poking into people’s salaries.

Try to find people working for different organizations and ask them for their salary range. This approach is less invasive than asking for a specific number. Some career fields have professional organizations. These organizations may have access to industry pay standards.

Another resource is the Internet. Job posting websites will usually list a salary, along with a job description. You can get a good idea of how much you are worth by figuring in your education and experience.

Timing is everything. Don’t ask for a raise until you have done something that has made the company money or made them look good. Pick a time when you have shined and your contribution can be measured.

Prepare your presentation. Know your company’s policies regarding raises. Do you meet all of the requirements? Do you have enough time in the job? Do you meet education standards and have you completed all of your position’s requirements? If you don’t meet the requirements for a raise, it’s an easy way to be shot down before you even present your case.

Put your presentation together using logic and clear examples. You don’t want to ask for a raise just because you think you deserve it. You have to have facts, figures and examples to back it up. Also, you don’t want to be unrealistic. Make your request reasonable and present your argument with confidence.

Let’s say your presentation is a success, your boss agrees and you get a raise. Good job, end of story. But, what if you don’t get the raise? How should you react? The last thing you want to do is sulk or get angry. The best approach is to find out want you need to do to get a raise. A good manager will be able to cite examples and give you a path to follow.

Everyone would like to earn more money and getting compensated for your work is only fair. If you think you deserve a raise, follow the above tips and go for it!