Make the lateral raise work even better with this simple modification.
Compared to other free-weight lateral raise variations, this exercise puts the deltoid under tension for a greater portion of the range of motion, making each rep more effective. It also places greater overload at the top of the movement.
Think about "pushing the dumbbell away" from your body as you raise it. This keeps your traps from taking over and keeps the tension where you want it.
Has your bench been stuck so long you've considered loading up the bar to your usual weight and just welding the damn plates on? If that's true, it's time to bust through that pesky plateau.