Ask the Expert Dr. Kathleen Wells is a professional career coach and Director of Coaches That Care. She has coached thousands of clients through the stages of successful career development. Asking for a Raise Q:What do I do if my employer had offered me a $2.00 increase and then 2 days later he changes his mind and takes 1/2 of it back? Anita A: This is a tough one. I really need to know a few things before being totally definitive. For example, is this a big company that can afford $2 or is it a small office and the person legitimately had second thoughts about what she could afford to pay? If it is a large company, I would discuss it with the person who reneged first. See if you can reach an agreement. If that does not work, go to the human resources manager. The verbal commitment of a raise should be legally binding as verbal contracts can be as strong as written. Failing a satisfactory response, you must choose whether to continue there or whether to accept what they gave you and begin looking for a bigger, better opportunity elsewhere. If it is a small company and they legitimately cannot afford what they first said, be gracious. You don't know what other opportunities might come down the road. If you believe they can afford it, put together a few examples of how your work has saved the company money or increased revenue and approach them again prepared to talk about what an asset you are. Again, failing a satisfactory response, it may be time to choose again. Good luck! Also see: Negotiating for a raise