Everyone could use a little more cash in the bank. You love your job, but you think that you are deserving of more compensation. Negotiating a raise with your boss doesn’t start with an awkward conversation. It’s something that you cultivate over the course of weeks or months. Follow these steps to a constructive conversation with your boss.

1. Communicate Your Career Goals: The first part of this equation is knowing yourself, and where you want to go. If you’d like to one day be the director, let your manager know that. Ask them questions on how to achieve your career goals, and put a path in place for upward motion. Most managers want to see their employees grow and excel, but don’t rely on your manager to make it happen. Be proactive about finding ways to make new connections and vocalize your career goals.

2. Openly Celebrate Victories: Whenever something great happens at work, share it with your boss. You want to do it in a way that isn’t bragging, but that shows your hard work. Tell them how you accomplished your goal, how it benefits the company, and how the rest of the team can also join in on your victory. Show others how you landed your new victory so that they can replicate it, making it a win for everyone.

3. Do Your Research: Before you approach your boss, do some research on what the average person in your position makes. Make a list of your contributions to the company, as well as future goals that you want to achieve. Find out if there are certain certifications or qualifications that you need to acquire before asking for a pay raise.

4. Dress For The Job You Want: We’ve all heard that we should “dress for the job you want, not the one you have”. It couldn’t be more true. When you show initiative, it will not only come from your work ethic – it’ll be from your appearance too. Dressing professionally will show that you take your work seriously, and that you want to do well.

5. Take On Responsibilities: Be dependable for your boss. Arrive on time, don’t leave early, and have your eyes peeled for ways you can help. Anticipate issues before they arise. Be proactive and willing to take on more responsibilities, which will show your desire to enhance your career.

6. Focus On Why You Deserve It: After you’ve built up a solid reputation with your managers and boss, now is the time to have a talk with them. Have your research on hand, as well as your list of reasons of why you deserve a pay increase. Focus on your accomplishments and how it’s benefited the company, rather than why you want more money. State your case in a respectful way, and back it up with numbers. Let your bosses discuss the options, and come back to you with an answer.

7. Be Prepared For “No”: It’s a very real possibility that your boss will say ‘no.’ Of course, it’s the last thing that you want to hear, but don’t let it shut you down. Take their answer, and ask if you can have another review in the coming months to see if there’s room for a raise. Take any critiques and advise that they may have and apply it where you can.

Show your loyalty by seeking career moves within the company. Create longevity with a company that treats you well. If you are constantly overworked and underpaid, start searching outside of their network for a company that will treat you fairly. You work hard, and your salary should reflect your efforts.