13 Ways to Score a Bigger Salary in 2022

Currently, the labor market is very competitive, and demand for skilled workers is high amid a labor shortage. That provides ample opportunity for workers to boost their income in 2022.

So how can you end next year with a larger salary than you started with? These 13 simple steps should help you make it happen.

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Around 20% of workers changed jobs since the start of the pandemic, and 46% are planning to make a career switch soon. Perhaps you should be one of them.

Changing jobs could be the simplest way to raise your salary next year. If you can find a better opportunity with a company that pays more than you're currently earning, you'll guarantee that you'll end the year with a higher paycheck.

Many employees receive periodic performance reviews from their employers. When you go to your review next year, ask for a raise. Or, if your employer offers one, negotiate to see if you can get an extra boost.

Inflation is high right now, so workers need a raise just so their paychecks keep pace with buying power. Companies know this and should be amenable to raising your rate if you're a good worker and you come prepared with a specific request and justification for it.

ALSO READ: What Is Inflation?

Putting in extra hours could result in a salary increase -- especially if you're paid an hourly wage. Many employers who have struggled to find skilled workers are eager for qualified staff members to work overtime, so ask about opportunities to take on extra hours.

If you're a salaried employee and don't get a direct income boost from overtime, your company is still likely to notice your extra efforts, and this may prompt management to increase your compensation.

If your company offers workplace training, sign up for it. Employers offer this type of training to equip workers with the skills they are looking for.

If you develop your talents, you could move into a better-paying role within your company -- or simply become more indispensable to your bosses, so they'll be more willing to give you a raise in your current position.

If your boss is looking for someone to take on extra tasks, volunteer your time. As you come to be counted on for an increasing number of things, your employer will be more eager to up your compensation due to the additional work you're doing.

Taking on extra tasks at work can also help you qualify for a promotion, or can enhance your resume so finding a new and better-paying job is easier.

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When you accomplish something impressive at work, be sure to take note of it. By tracking your successes, you'll be better able to show your employer all that you've done to help the company. This can bolster your request for a raise.

Tracking your accomplishments also gives you some specific wins you can share at job interviews if you decide to branch out and look for a new position.

ALSO READ: Want a New Job in 2022? Here's Why You Should Start Looking Now

Be sure to look into all of the benefits your employer offers, such as flexible spending accounts or corporate discounts. While these won't increase your paycheck directly, if they help you to save money on other expenses such as commuting or childcare, that will still have the effect of raising the income you get to use for other things.

As a result of COVID-19, a growing number of companies now allow workers to do their jobs from home. If you can work remotely, this can often have the effect of increasing your salary by substantially reducing commuting costs.

ALSO READ: Working Remotely: Is this the Future of the Workforce?

Companies sometimes provide bonuses for performance. If your company does, talk with your boss about exactly what your options are for earning the maximum bonus.

If your employer doesn't currently offer incentives for performance, suggesting it institute this type of program could help you to earn a further salary boost if it gets on board.

If your company matches retirement account contributions, be sure you are earning the full amount of your employer match.

When your employer gives you free money to save for retirement by making contributions to your 401(k) or other qualified retirement plan on your behalf, this has the effect of increasing your income by the amount the company invested on your behalf.

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If you're hoping to boost your salary, consider taking some courses to expand your credentials.

Earning a new degree or certification could allow you to negotiate for a higher salary at your current job or qualify for a new position at a better rate.

ALSO READ: 4 Ways to Upskill for Career Growth

You can also increase your income by taking on an additional job in your spare time. A huge number of side hustles are available, and putting in even a few extra hours could help you to significantly increase the amount of income you earn in 2022.

ALSO READ: 4 Perfect Side Hustles When You Need a Small Income Boost

If you have an idea for making money on your own, consider making 2022 the year that you start your own business.

Running your own company gives you virtually unlimited earning potential if you have a solid plan and can make a success of it. You can start in your spare time and slowly transition to earning a full-time living from your company if things work out.

Workers have an unprecedented opportunity right now to take control of their own destiny and find ways to earn more money in 2022.

The sooner you develop a plan for boosting your income, the sooner you can start enjoying the benefits that a higher salary provides. So, get to work on implementing any or all of these ideas ASAP to maximize the chances you'll end 2022 earning more money than when you started.

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