How should I approach my boss about a raise/promotion?

Question

What is the best manner to approach a supervisor and request a raise or promotion?

As a web developer, it's not really easy to quantify performance standards on any type of metrics either.

Answer 1

First and foremost, be honest with yourself. I would say evaluate yourself and determine your worth in the company. If you feel that you need a raise, be honest with your employer. Explain to them what you are looking for (raise or promotion) and I would not expect to get an answer right away. Just drop a bug in their ear and if they request to think about it for a week or two, let them. If this time goes by and you still do not hear anything from them, schedule a meeting with them and bring it up again. Go into the meeting knowing what you would like to get and what you are willing to go with for now.

Answer 2

One thing that could be convincing would be assembling a list of new skills you've acquired since you were hired (or since your last raise/promotion). I should be easier for your boss to consider the possibility of a raise or promotion when it's presented as "You started out paying $X for someone who could do A, B and C, but now you actually have someone who can do A, B, C, D and E."

A list of specific accomplishments, if they're above average compared to your coworkers, would definitely help as well. I would think of it somewhat like preparing a resume.