* Know what standards your employer uses for assessing performance and tailor your delivery accordingly.

* Prepare clear and concise documentation of relevant salary facts and figures, and details of ways in which you are contributing to company.

* Be aware of importance of negotiating skills: listen carefully to what your boss is saying; don't be confrontational; avoid ultimatums; and, if necessary, be prepared to compromise.

* Rehearse your performance with a valued friend who is prepared to ask you searching questions; criticize your delivery; and provide you with constructive feedback.

* If, because of circumstances beyond his control, your employer feels unable at this time to give you a pay rise, thank him or her for listening and ask to have your pay reviewed within three months.

* Remember that you will have to work with your boss in future; so, leave meeting on good terms, and NEVER bang door behind you.

Gerard McLoughlin, Director of Assignments Plus Communications, has contributed career-related articles to hundreds of recruitment companies, websites and publications throughout the world, including: USA Today, JobBankUSA.com, US-Recruiters.com, Jobs1.co.uk, Nurse-Recruiter.com, and Recruitireland.com.

Hiring from within or hiring new faces has various benefits. Hiring external candidates for upper-level management positions will provide a business with fresh ideas. Yet, as mentioned before, hiring candidates internally will save time and resources. To develop employees within your own business, prepare them for promotion and help improve their leadership development so that they can become a continuing asset to your business.

CMOE has helped thousands of participants around the world with their leadership development. For more information, contact one of our team members by calling (888) 962-6224.