Go for the raise as soon as possible after an outstanding accomplishment, but match this to appropriate budget cycles or other fiscal factors. It's a waste of time and potentially damaging to seek a raise from the wrong person. Make a simple list of possible objections. Counter them in writing for verbal response. Rehearse your negotiating points until you own them 100 percent.
Nothing succeeds more than clarity of message delivered with total confidence.
Now that you've gathered your ammunition, find a time and place where you will have your supervisor's undivided attention. Arrive promptly attired slightly more formally than on a normal business day. If you don't get the raise, express your disappointment directly, not through threats to resign or hints that headhunters are waiting in the wings. You still have a chance to recoup by asking when you could be considered and what you need to do to get there. If you don't get the raise, express your disappointment directly, not through threats to resign or hints that headhunters are waiting in the wings.