Money can be an uncomfortable topic.
But here’s the truth: most employers expect their employees to negotiate.
If you’ve been doing great work and think you deserve a raise, you should absolutely ask. The key is doing it the right way—confidently, clearly, and with preparation.
This guide will walk you through proven tactics to ask for a raise and actually get it.
Why People Hesitate to Ask for a Raise
Before diving into tactics, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: asking for more money feels awkward.
Common reasons people hold back include:
- Fear of rejection or looking “greedy”
- Worry about damaging relationships at work
- Not knowing the “right” time to ask
- Lack of confidence in their value
Here’s the thing: none of those fears are deal-breakers. Employers expect this conversation, and if you handle it professionally, it won’t harm your reputation.
Step 1: Build Your Case with Evidence
Your raise request should never be based on “I need more money.”
It should be based on value you bring to the company.
Collect proof of your impact
- Track achievements: Keep a running list of projects you’ve led, revenue you’ve helped generate, money you’ve saved the company, or efficiency improvements.
- Use numbers: Data talks. For example, “I increased customer satisfaction scores by 15%” or “I managed a project that saved $50,000.”
- Show growth: If your role has expanded or you’ve taken on new responsibilities without a title or pay change, highlight it.
Think of this as building your “raise resume.” The stronger the evidence, the harder it is for your manager to say no.
Step 2: Research Market Value
You need to know what people in your role typically earn.
Where to research
- Salary websites: Glassdoor, PayScale, Salary.com, LinkedIn Salary.
- Industry reports: Many trade associations release annual compensation studies.
- Networking: Talk to trusted peers in your industry (if appropriate).
This research gives you a salary range to work with. If your market value is higher than your current pay, that’s leverage.
Step 3: Choose the Right Timing
Timing matters almost as much as what you say.
Best times to ask
- During your annual performance review (raises are often budgeted then).
- After a big win, like completing a major project or securing a key client.
- When you’ve taken on significant new responsibilities.
Times to avoid
- During layoffs or budget cuts.
- Right after a mistake or negative company news.
- When your boss is clearly stressed or overwhelmed.
If you’re strategic, you’ll catch your manager in a more open, receptive mood.
Step 4: Practice Your Pitch
Going in unprepared is the biggest mistake people make.
Instead, plan exactly what you’ll say. Here’s a simple framework:
1. Start positive
“Thanks for taking the time to meet. I’ve really enjoyed growing in my role over the past year.”
2. Present your case
“Over the last 12 months, I led [specific project], which resulted in [specific outcome]. I’ve also taken on [new responsibility].”
3. Link to market data
“Based on industry benchmarks, the typical salary range for my role is [range].”
4. Make your ask
“I’d like to discuss adjusting my salary to better reflect my contributions and market standards.”
Keep it short, professional, and confident.
Step 5: Anticipate Pushback
Even if your manager values you, they may hesitate. That’s normal.
Common objections
- “The budget is tight.”
- “We don’t do raises outside review cycles.”
- “Let’s revisit this later.”
How to respond
- Stay calm and professional.
- Reaffirm your value: “I understand budgets are tight, but I’d like to emphasize the measurable results I’ve achieved.”
- Ask for specifics: “If a raise isn’t possible right now, what steps should I take to position myself for one in the next review?”
Sometimes you won’t get a “yes” right away. But a clear roadmap keeps the conversation alive.
Step 6: Be Open to Alternatives
If a raise isn’t possible, consider negotiating for other benefits.
Options to request
- Additional vacation days
- Remote work flexibility
- Professional development budget
- A performance-based bonus structure
- Equity or stock options
Money is great, but perks can also add real value to your work-life balance.
Step 7: Follow Up in Writing
After the meeting, send a short recap email.
Example:
“Thanks for taking the time to discuss my role and compensation today. As we talked about, I’ll continue to focus on [project] and [responsibility], and we’ll revisit this conversation in [timeframe].”
This keeps things on record and shows professionalism.
Negotiation Mindset: Think Win-Win
The goal isn’t to “win” against your boss. It’s to show that paying you more is in the company’s best interest.
Tips for the right mindset:
- Confidence, not arrogance: Believe in your value, but stay humble.
- Professional tone: Avoid ultimatums like “Pay me more or I quit.”
- Collaboration: Frame it as “How can we make this work together?”
Employers are more likely to agree when they see you as a partner, not a problem.
Quick Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Research before asking
- Highlight specific results
- Keep the tone positive
- Rehearse your pitch
- Follow up professionally
Don’t:
- Compare yourself to coworkers by name
- Make it about personal financial struggles
- Apologize for asking
- Get emotional if the answer is “not now”
- Back down without a plan for revisiting
Realistic Expectations
Here’s the reality: even if you do everything right, you may not get the raise immediately.
But by asking, you’ve planted the seed. You’ve positioned yourself as someone who values their work and knows their worth. That alone can influence future decisions in your favor.
Also, if your company consistently undervalues you, this process gives you the confidence (and evidence) to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Asking for a raise doesn’t have to feel scary.
With preparation, timing, and confidence, you can make a strong case for why you deserve more. And even if the answer is “not yet,” you’ll have started a productive conversation about your career growth.
Remember: the worst they can say is no. The best? They say yes—and you walk away with a higher paycheck and recognition of your hard work.
So don’t wait until frustration builds. Prepare, practice, and ask.
You’ve earned it.
