As an employee, one of the most significant career milestones you'll encounter is asking your boss for a raise. While it can be a nerve-wracking experience, advocating for yourself and your worth is essential for personal and professional growth. In this guide, we'll explore why you should advocate for yourself, the best ways to ask for a raise, and example language to help you make your case confidently.
Read more: How to Ask for a Raise at Work When You Know You’re Underpaid
Why is advocating for yourself important?
Advocating for a raise is not just about getting more money. It's about securing your financial well-being. A higher salary can help you meet your financial goals, save for the future, and enjoy a better quality of life.
By asking for a raise, you signal to your employer that you recognize your worth and expect to be compensated accordingly. This shows self-confidence, ambition, and a commitment to your career. Plus, earning what you believe you're worth can lead to increased job satisfaction and motivation. When you feel fairly compensated, you're more likely to be engaged and committed to your work, benefiting both you and your employer.
Advocating for yourself can also contribute to closing the intersectional pay gap. By pushing for fair compensation, you not only benefit personally but also help to create more equitable workplaces.
Read more: Where Do Women Experience Gender Bias? Everywhere.
6 initial steps for asking your boss for a raise
Asking your boss for a raise is a significant step in your career, and it requires careful preparation. Here are the initial steps you should take before approaching your boss.
1. Prepare thoroughly and document your wins
Before initiating the conversation about a raise, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Take the time to document your achievements, responsibilities, and contributions to the company. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond your job description or contributed to the company's success. Having a clear list of your accomplishments will help you make a strong case.
You can document your achievements in a Google Doc or a work journal. With every achievement, project, or story, be sure to clearly indicate:
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When and how you completed a project or solved the problem, step by step
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What impact you created with metrics and results (e.g., revenue, sales, year-over-year growth, time or cost savings, number of people reached, important C-level decisions you influenced, etc.)
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Why it was important to the business
2. Research salary benchmarks
Research industry standards and salary benchmarks for your role and location. Websites like Payscale and the Bureau of Labor Statistics can provide valuable data. Understanding the market value for your position will strengthen your argument for a raise and provide you with a benchmark to refer to during the discussion.
3. Choose the right time
Timing is essential when discussing a raise. Ideally, aim to have this conversation during a performance review or after completing a significant project that highlights your value to the company. Avoid bringing up the topic during stressful times, such as when the company is facing financial difficulties.
4. Set realistic expectations
While you may be seeking a substantial salary increase, it's important to have realistic expectations. Consider factors like your tenure, industry standards, and the company's financial health. Be prepared for potential negotiations and be open to discussing other benefits if a significant salary increase is not immediately feasible. Consider negotiating for more non-monetary benefits, like additional vacation days or professional development opportunities.
5. Practice your pitch
Rehearse what you want to say and how you plan to present your case. Practice speaking confidently and concisely about your accomplishments and why you believe you deserve a raise. Put yourself in your boss’ shoes and consider potential questions they might ask and prepare responses in advance.
Approach the conversation with a positive attitude and a willingness to engage in a constructive dialogue. Remember, your boss may need time to consider your request, so be patient and open to their feedback.
6. Quell your anxiety
It's normal to feel nervous when discussing your compensation, but try to remain calm. Focus on the facts, your contributions, and your value to the company. Emphasize how a raise would benefit both you and the organization. While you’re trying to soothe your anxiety, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to get rid of it. Simply saying to yourself, “I’m anxious. I’m advocating for myself, which is scary, but I’m going to be okay,” can make you feel a little better.
By following these initial steps, you'll be well-prepared to have a productive discussion with your boss about a potential raise. Effective communication, evidence of your value, and a well-structured approach will increase your chances of success.
Read more: How to Make the Business Case for the Work You Do
Specific language to use when asking your boss for a raise
Depending on your job, you might be ready for a raise at six months or a year. Once you’re ready, you’ll need to set up a meeting with your boss. It should be a conversation, so keep your introduction brief and straight-forward. You can send your boss an email or Slack message or bring the topic up in person with something like, "I'd like to request a meeting to discuss my compensation. Is there a time that works well for you in the next week or two?"
Once you nail down the date, prep for the raise conversation. Begin the conversation by expressing your gratitude for the opportunities and experiences you've had with the company. Language like, "I really appreciate the opportunities I’ve had here, and I’m excited about the responsibilities I’ve taken on. I know we’ve talked before about my long-term goals, and I’m hoping we can continue that conversation today," demonstrates that you value your job and the organization.
Focus the conversation on why you are deserving of the raise, not why you need it. Emphasize your dedication and commitment to the company. For example, say something like:
"I'm committed to continuing to deliver exceptional results for (company name), and I believe that discussing my compensation and how it aligns with my contributions is a natural part of that commitment. Since I took on this position, I’ve consistently set goals and met them. [Insert a few excellent examples here]."
Let your boss know that you've done your homework and are well-prepared for the discussion. This can instill confidence in your approach. Say:
"I've taken the time to evaluate my contributions over the past year and have done some research on industry standards. I'm ready to discuss how my performance and compensation compare."
Make your ask and compensation goals clear. Be direct and use language like:
“I’m seeking a 7 percent increase in my salary of $90,000. I believe this raise reflects my contributions and will help me stay motivated and committed to the company's success."
Show your willingness to engage in a productive conversation and be open to feedback. This demonstrates your professionalism and a cooperative attitude. For example:
"I'm looking forward to a constructive discussion about my compensation. I value your feedback and would like to find a solution that benefits both of us."
It’s always best practice to have this kind of conversation in person, but if that’s not possible, you can send a well-worded email.
Read more: Tips for Negotiating an Internal Promotion Salary: How to Get the Best Offer
Two email template examples
To ask for a raise meeting in person, use this template:
Hi (manager's name),
I'd like to request a meeting to discuss my compensation. I've thoroughly evaluated my contributions to the team and the company over the past year and believe that an adjustment is warranted.
In the meeting, I'd like to discuss my accomplishments, responsibilities, and how they align with industry benchmarks. I'm confident that a salary adjustment would not only reflect my dedication to the company but also ensure that I can continue to deliver exceptional results.
Your guidance and feedback are highly valuable to me, and I believe that an open and honest conversation will benefit both of us. Please let me know when you're available, and I will make sure to accommodate your schedule.
Thank you for your time, and I look forward to our discussion.
Best,
(Your name)
To ask for a raise over email, use this template:
Hi (manager’s name),
I am writing to request an increase of 8 percent to my base salary. In my time in product management at (company name), I have advanced from a junior product manager to product manager, and expanded my responsibilities to include both client support and reporting.
In the last year, I have achieved positive performance reviews over the last four quarters, a client satisfaction rating increase of 20 percent since I took over Product X, and implementation of four new UX improvements that have resulted in 90 percent satisfaction scores from users.
An 8 percent increase to my current salary of $70,000 would place me at $75,600, which I believe is commensurate with my experience and contributions.
I appreciate very much your time in responding to this request.
Thank you in advance,
(Your name)
By understanding the importance of advocating for yourself, following the steps to ask for a raise, and using the provided example language, you can confidently approach your boss and make a compelling case for the compensation you deserve. You are your best advocate, and a well-earned raise can benefit both your professional and personal life.
