Feeling underpaid but unsure how to ask for a raise in pay? You’re not alone. A recent survey by Payscale found that 63% of employees who ask for a raise get one, but only 37% of employees actually take the step to request a salary increase. The key to success? Preparation, confidence, and strategy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to ask for a raise in pay, covering everything from research to crafting the perfect request.
Step 1: Preparing Your Case – Do Your Homework
1. Research Industry Standards for Your Role
Before asking for a raise, you need to understand how your current salary compares to industry benchmarks. Use tools like:
- Glassdoor Salary Explorer (Glassdoor.com)
- Payscale Salary Calculator (Payscale.com)
- Robert Half Salary Guide (roberthalf.com)
Example: If you’re a marketing manager making $75,000 per year, but industry data shows that marketing managers with your experience and location earn an average of $85,000–$95,000, you have a strong case for a 10–15% raise.
2. Gather Concrete Evidence of Your Value
You need quantifiable proof that you deserve a raise. Here’s how:
- Track Your Achievements: List specific contributions you’ve made to the company. Use numbers where possible.
- Highlight Added Responsibilities: If your job role has expanded without a pay increase, this is a strong argument.
- Showcase Your Impact: Connect your achievements to business success.
Example:
- Before: “I’ve been working hard and think I deserve a raise.” ❌
- After: “Over the past year, I successfully launched a digital campaign that increased website traffic by 45%, directly leading to a 20% increase in sales. Given my contributions and industry benchmarks, I’d like to discuss a salary adjustment.” ✅
3. Understand Your Company’s Raise Policy
Not all companies offer raises year-round. Find out:
- When does your company conduct salary reviews?
- What is the usual salary increase percentage?
- Have other colleagues recently received raises?
Pro Tip: If your company is struggling financially, consider negotiating additional benefits like remote work, bonuses, or extra vacation days.
Step 2: Crafting Your Raise Request – The Right Words Matter
Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to structure your conversation effectively.
How to ask a raise in pay?
1. Use Professional and Confident Language
When you ask for a raise, your wording matters. Be clear, direct, and positive. Avoid vague or apologetic language.
❌ Don’t Say: “I was hoping I could maybe get a raise because I’ve been working really hard.”
✅ Do Say: “Given my contributions, increased responsibilities, and industry salary benchmarks, I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation.”
2. Practice the Right Salary Negotiation Script
Here’s a simple, effective script you can follow when asking for a raise in person:
📢 Example Raise Request (In-Person Conversation)
“Hi [Manager’s Name], I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had here at [Company Name]. Over the past [X months/years], I’ve taken on additional responsibilities, contributed significantly to [specific project/result], and helped achieve [specific success]. Based on my contributions and industry salary benchmarks, I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation. Would you be open to a conversation about a salary increase?”
If your boss hesitates, follow up with:
“I understand budgets can be tight, but given my impact on the company, what steps would you recommend for me to reach a salary adjustment in the near future?”
3. How to Ask for a Raise in pay by Email
If you’re more comfortable writing your request, use the raise request email template. Note: It is recommended to be asked in person or on a one on one call if working remotely.
📩 Example Raise Request Email
Subject: Request for Salary Review
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I’d love to schedule a time to discuss my salary and growth at [Company Name]. Over the past [X months/years], I’ve taken on additional responsibilities and contributed to [specific achievements]. Given these contributions and industry benchmarks, I believe a salary adjustment is appropriate.
Would you be available for a short meeting this week to discuss this? I appreciate your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
4. How to Ask for a BIG Raise (20% or More)
Is asking for a 20% raise too much? It depends on:
- How much the market is paying for your role.
- Your performance and contributions.
- Your company’s financial health.
💡 Example for a Larger Raise Request:
“Based on my market research, professionals in my role and location typically earn 20% more than my current salary. Additionally, my recent contributions, such as [specific achievements], have led to measurable business growth. I’d love to discuss aligning my compensation accordingly.”
Step 3: Handling Pushback – What If They Say No?
Not all raise requests are immediately approved. If your manager declines your request, consider these responses:
1. Ask for a Path to a Future Raise
“I understand that a raise isn’t possible right now. What steps can I take in the next 6 months to be considered for a salary increase?”
2. Negotiate Perks Instead
If a salary raise isn’t an option, ask for:
- Performance-based bonuses
- More paid time off
- Stock options
- Flexible work arrangements
3. Know When to Walk Away
If your company consistently underpays you despite strong performance, it may be time to explore better opportunities elsewhere.
Step 4: How Often to Ask for a Raise?
- After 6 months? Possible, but only if you’ve made significant contributions.
- After 1 year? A reasonable time frame for an annual review.
- After 3 years without a raise? You should definitely initiate the conversation.
💡 General Rule: Ask for a raise once per year if your performance justifies it.
Final Takeaways – How to Ask for a Raise in Pay and Get It!
- Research your salary market value using reliable sources.
- Track your achievements and provide quantifiable evidence of your impact.
- Use confident, professional language when making your request.
- Have a plan B if your request is denied (perks, bonuses, future roadmap).
- Remember: The worst they can say is “no.” But if you prepare well and present your case confidently, you dramatically increase your chances of getting the salary you deserve.
- So what are you waiting for? Schedule that meeting and take the first step toward your well-earned raise!
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