Reasonable to ask for a raise?

[Bryan Cranston]

A pay raise is not just about you but your colleagues. So you'd have to show that you're more valuable to the team than other newbies. You also have to consider the jealousy and contempt when they find out you're getting more.

[elessar78]

Why work retail? You're attending college why not try to score a temp job or some kind of office gig that will pay more than $7.25. There are a lot of businesses that "need a hand" but can't hire a full-time person. There are a lot of people willing to take the job you have, so there's little incentive. Plus, my take on clothing retail is that the stores hire people who will buy their clothing—effectively you're giving back a portion of your pay to the store. It's a win win for them.

What is your major? Why not try to score some kind of part time work in that field.

What other skills do you have?

Hang onto the Express job for now, but I'd suggest being more creative in how you earn your pocket money.

In college I reffed soccer games. Came out to about $25-30 bucks an hour. Paid in cash. Got to pick how little or how much I worked.

[Petunia 100]

Actually Express sales associates are much different from your average associate.. We have a set list of rules that we have to follow in order to sell merchandise. Every associate is in fact a sales person. One of the things we focus on daily is our conversion factor, that is how often we can change a persons mind into buying something or buying more. ex: Telling a customer that X color looks greats with the pants that they are getting. And that we have a buy 1 get 1 promo. This weekend I contributed to having a higher conversion rate than other employees at the time. I was recognized for it with a $5 off coupon... But I see what all of you are saying.. If I can prove to them paying me an extra $X.XX more, will increase their productivity that I deserve a raise.


Also, this forum is about learning about money/money management/general advice. No need to be rude. If it's not going help provide information, then there's no need for it.

That's great. Continue to do an awesome job. When you have been there for 6 months, then approach your manager about a raise. Is there a formal review process?