If you worked for an employer, you would likely receive periodic raises. Your employer might conduct an annual review, in which they highlight your strengths and weaknesses; and at the end of the meeting, they might mention your new hourly or yearly salary. But when you work for yourself, things are somewhat differently.

Freelancers and telecommuters juggle multiple clients, and we agree to complete our assignments for X amount of dollars. And while this agreed upon amount may work well for you in the beginning, there may come a time when you would like (or deserve) more money. This is especially true if you’ve worked for the same client for several years and always turned in excellent work.

In a perfect world, every client would offer periodic pay increases - but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes they need a little reminder. Of course, coming out and asking for more money doesn’t come natural for some. But there are ways to ask for a raise - without asking for a raise.

• Ask for more assignments, or offer additional services: Contact your clients and mention your willingness to accept additional assignments. Do you offer additional freelance services? If so, solicit your other skills.

• Inquire about future pay increases: This approach worked well for me - and I didn’t even plan it. After working with a client for over a year (at the same pay rate), I casually inquired as to whether the company offered pay increases, or if the current rate was the maximum. To my surprise, the company offered me a pay increase - wasn’t expecting it, but I gladly took it.

• Don’t make demands: Do you want to keep your clients? Then I wouldn’t suggest making demands or giving ultimatums. Yes, you’re good at your job, and you know how to respect deadlines. But there are hundreds of other freelancers who are just as good - and ready to take your place.