12 Ways To Prepare to Ask for a Pay Raise

Talking about money is a social taboo in society, and to the average person, it can feel awkward to approach someone asking for more money.

People feel like it’s greedy to ask for a raise, but the truth is that there’s often no harm in asking if you go about it with tact and humility.

Asking for a raise is a pivotal aspect of career growth, signaling your confidence in your contributions and recognizing your value within the organization. However, this conversation requires careful planning and strategic execution. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process, providing valuable tips, scripts, and answers to common questions.

Key Takeaways

• Asking for a raise requires a strategic mindset and professionalism. Key steps involve self-reflection, aligning with company goals, preparing a compelling case, practicing your pitch, and anticipating questions.
• Before approaching your manager, meticulous preparations are crucial. Conduct a financial self-assessment, research salary benchmarks, document achievements, quantify contributions, gather positive feedback, and consider external offers if applicable. 

What Is the Best Way To Ask for a Pay Raise?

Asking for a raise is a nuanced process that demands a strategic mindset and professionalism. Here's a guide on how to get started before you actually ask:

• Self-reflection and assessment. Before jumping into the conversation, reflect on your performance and contributions. Assess your achievements, responsibilities, and the impact you've had on projects and team goals.
• Align with company goals. Consider how your role contributes to the company's overall success. Clearly articulate how a raise for you aligns with the organization's objectives and improves its bottom line.
• Prepare a compelling case. Document your accomplishments, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Showcase specific projects, successful tasks, and any additional responsibilities you've taken on.
• Practice your pitch. Practice articulating your value proposition. Be prepared to discuss your achievements confidently and professionally during the actual conversation.
• Anticipate questions and objections. Anticipate potential questions or objections your manager might raise. Prepare thoughtful responses that highlight your preparedness and commitment.
• Assess your manager's style. Consider your manager's communication style and preferences. Tailor your approach to align with their preferred mode of communication.

12 Steps to Prepare and Ask for a Pay Raise

Talking about money can feel awkward—even taboo. But if you’ve been putting in the effort, growing in your role, and adding value to your company, asking for a raise isn’t greedy—it’s smart.

Whether you’re gearing up for your first raise conversation or need a refresher on how to approach it with professionalism and confidence, this list breaks the process down into clear, strategic steps.

1. Reflect on Your Performance

Before making your pitch, take a moment to assess your own contributions. Have you taken on more responsibility? Delivered measurable results? Earned the trust of your peers and managers? This self-inventory sets the foundation for your request.

2. Align with the Company’s Goals

Show how your work supports the bigger picture. Managers are more receptive when they see that your contributions directly align with business objectives. Frame your ask around how your success helps the company succeed.

3. Research Salary Benchmarks

Use sites like Glassdoor, PayScale, and Salary.com to compare your salary to industry norms for your role and location. This data backs up your case and helps you ask for a raise that’s fair and competitive.

4. Quantify Your Wins

Numbers talk. Highlight metrics like:

• Revenue you’ve generated or saved
• Projects you’ve led or supported
• Productivity increases
• Cost-cutting initiatives
  Use charts or bullet points in your documentation to make these wins easy to digest.

5. Gather Testimonials and Feedback

If clients, colleagues, or higher-ups have praised your work, document it. Positive feedback from others can be just as compelling as hard metrics—it reinforces your value from multiple angles.

6. Consider External Offers (Carefully)

While you shouldn’t threaten to leave, having an external offer in hand can validate your market worth. If you mention it, do so tactfully and only if it’s sincere. Keep the focus on why you want to grow within your current company.

7. Time It Right

Timing is everything. Ask for a raise:

• After a successful project or major achievement
• During your annual review period
• When the company is doing well financially
  Avoid asking during layoffs, budget cuts, or stressful periods.

8. Book a Dedicated Meeting

Don't spring the conversation on your boss casually in the hallway. Schedule a meeting with a clear purpose, like “Performance and Growth Discussion,” so they know to expect a serious conversation.

9. Practice Your Pitch

Rehearse how you’ll present your case. Keep it professional, confident, and focused on value. You can even role-play with a trusted friend or mentor to smooth out any awkwardness.

10. Present Your Case in Writing

After your meeting, follow up with an email that outlines your request and reiterates your contributions. Here's a quick sample:

Subject: Request for Salary Review

Hi [Manager’s Name],

Thank you for meeting with me earlier. As discussed, I wanted to follow up with a summary of my recent contributions and a formal request for a salary review. I’ve attached a document outlining key accomplishments and relevant market data.

I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to your feedback.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

11. Prepare for Pushback

Be ready for responses like:

• “It’s not the right time.”
• “We don’t have the budget.”
• “Let’s revisit this in six months.”

Have a backup plan—maybe ask for additional responsibilities, a defined growth plan, or non-monetary benefits like flexible work or extra PTO. Stay calm, collected, and open to negotiation.

12. Don’t Make These Common Mistakes

When asking for a raise, avoid:

• Being vague about your accomplishments
• Comparing yourself to coworkers
• Making ultimatums
• Asking without preparation
• Bringing it up during high-stress times
• And never exaggerate or take credit for others’ work. Honesty, clarity, and timing are your best assets.

Mistakes To Avoid When Asking for a Pay Raise

Always make sure you conduct yourself with confidence and self-assurance. Use simple yet precise language to sell yourself! Use the numbers and data you’ve collected to tout your achievements with the company. Now isn’t the time to be modest.

At the same time, you should never take credit for ideas that aren’t yours or achievements you aren’t responsible for. Think about the timing of your raise, too.

Is the company in a slump right now? Have there been some recent layoffs? It might be better to bide your time and wait for a more opportune moment.

If you’re trying to promote yourself as a long-term investment for the company, it’s not wise to appear to be pouncing on a raise opportunity while the company is struggling or has been set back.

Should they say no, have a realistic number for the salary increase you want based on your merit, and a counteroffer on hand.

Getting a raise isn’t guaranteed, but being honest, forthright, and prepared in your meeting with your boss is a great way to get them on your side and see the value you bring to the company.

Related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are questions people often ask about asking for a raise.

How Much of a Raise Should I Ask For?

A common range is 5–10%, but your ask should reflect your impact, role evolution, and current market benchmarks.

When Is a Good Time to Ask for a Raise?

Right after completing a big project, during your annual review, or after consistently exceeding expectations. Avoid high-stress periods or times of financial instability at the company.

How Often Is It Reasonable to Ask for a Raise?

Generally, once a year is acceptable, especially if your responsibilities have grown or you haven’t had a salary adjustment in over 12 months. If your role has changed significantly, it may be appropriate to revisit sooner.

What’s a Good Salary Increase per Year?

For most roles, a 2–5% annual increase is standard for inflation and cost-of-living adjustments. 5–10% or more may be warranted for strong performance, promotions, or expanded responsibilities.

Can I Refuse to Take on More Work Without a Raise?

Yes, but approach it carefully. If new duties resemble a promotion or significantly increase your workload, it’s reasonable to request a raise or renegotiate expectations. Be respectful, not confrontational, and frame it as a conversation about fair compensation.

Is It Illegal Not To Get a Raise Every Year?

No, raises are not legally required unless part of a contractual agreement or union terms. That said, consistently not receiving raises, especially with increased responsibilities, can be a sign to explore new opportunities.

What Should I Do After I Request a Raise?

Be patient and professional. Give your manager time to review your request, and follow up within a reasonable timeframe—typically 1–2 weeks.

What If My Request Is Denied?

Ask for clarity on what’s needed to earn a raise. Request specific goals and a timeline for re-evaluation, and stay open to feedback or other forms of recognition.