No matter how happy you are with your current job, you’d probably love to see more money in every paycheck (who wouldn’t, right?). If it’s been a while since the boss let you know you were getting a raise, it’s time to do something about it. These five tips will help you increase your chances of getting a raise.

Keep Your Skills in Top Shape

Even if you’re great at your job, you can always be better. Look for ways to improve your current skills and make it a point to learn new things, too. Staying on top of industry best practices and expanding your skillset will give you an edge over colleagues who are happy to simply coast along.     

Record Your Accomplishments

If you’re going to ask for a raise, you need to be able to explain why you deserve one (in addition be generally awesome, of course). Your boss will be much more likely to consider your request when you have the facts and figures that show how your contributions have directly contributed to the organization’s success.

Do Your Research

Spend some time researching the salary ranges for your position in your city so you can ask for a realistic figure and have the stats to back it up (salary.com is a good place to find this information). Also, find out as much as you can about your company’s current financial state. If the organization is operating in the red, your chances for getting a raise go down.

Steer Clear of Office Gossip

You might think engaging in a little ‘water cooler’ talk might be a harmless way to blow off some steam. But participating in office gossip can actually tarnish your credibility and hinder your chances for career advancement and a higher salary. Managers appreciate team members who stay focused on their work and stay out of other people’s business.

Choose the Right Time to Ask

Timing is key when it comes to asking for a raise. Your annual performance review is the perfect time to raise the topic. But if your review is several months away, there’s no need to wait. Try to choose a time when your manager won’t be distracted by other things, such as the beginning or end of a large project or preparing for an important presentation. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with your manager when you can have their undivided attention; don’t just pop in or have a hallway conversation.