Five Reasons You're Not Getting a Raise (And What You Can Do About It).

You might think you deserve a raise, but that doesn't always mean your employers agree with you. And no, you can no longer heap all the blame on a bad economy.

If it's been a while since you increased your salary and you are, coming up against a wall, the most likely reason is...you. Here are the top five reasons you haven't landed the increase you so desperately want, and how to fix it.

Are you having Unrealistic Expectations?

It's vital to check in with your employers regularly so you're on the same page about your performance. Does your boss think you turn in above average at work or they think you're struggling at it?

Also, does your company give raises at a certain time each year or it’s based on performance.

But finally, remember to consider your company's financial situation. Asking for a big raise when the company is struggling can come off as out of touch.

Are you Doing Only What's Expected of you?

Doing your job is what you are paid for, whereas a raise is a sign that your boss sees that you're contributing at a higher level than what you were originally hired to do. One good rule of thumb is to be an employee who makes your boss's job easier. Volunteer to take on additional projects and think about what you can do to lighten their work-load.

Don't Call Attention to your Accomplishments, or act Entitled.

Doing either of these extremes, will not help you get a Salary bump. First make sure your boss is aware of everything you've taken on. And feel free to share your successes-they show that you're capable and competent. Be subtle about it: Set up a meeting to discuss projects you're working on, mention key wins you've had and ask for feedback in how you could still do better.

Another good strategy; Rely on third-party praise. Copy your boss on an email chain discussing a successfully-executed project or forward your boss a particularly moving compliment from a client.

Unable to Problem Solve, or you Love to Complain

Be honest with yourself: Is your gut instinct to tell your employer every time an issue arises, or do you try to navigate through hurdles yourself?

If it's an issue that truly needs to be escalated, by all means, manage up. Ultimately the people who get raises are the employees who consider it their jobs to provide solutions, not raise problems.

You Don't Pay Attention to the Details

Does your boss tell you to fix the same type of mistake over and over again? Do you constantly need reminders? Do you usually ask the same questions twice? If you answered "yes" to any of these a raise is (most likely) not in your near future. Take notes while your supervisor is giving instructions, see if you can find the answer yourself before asking questions, and each time you make a mistake, write down for yourself what it was, why it happened and how you'll prevent it from happening in the future.

If none of the above reasons apply to you, then seriously,

 "Ask For a Raise".

Don't expect your boss to bring it up.