How to Ask for a Raise at Work

Around 32 percent of Americans say they're hesitant to ask their employers for more money because they don't know how to approach the subject, according to a survey conducted by B2B Reviews [1]. Another 28 percent say they're afraid to ask due to fear of rejection [1]. When you feel your contributions to your job deserve a higher salary, knowing how to ask for a raise at work can help you build confidence and be prepared with the right information. Discover an effective step-by-step approach to the process and get more useful tips.  

Step-by-step guide for how to ask for a raise at work

Being prepared can help increase your chances of getting a higher salary when asking for a raise. Follow these steps to increase your chances of a positive result.

1. Choose the right time. 

When asking for a raise, consider your timing. Think about asking for a raise if:

• You've been on the job for at least a year, or it's been a year since you last got a raise.

• You have more duties and responsibilities than when you started but have yet to receive a pay increase.

• You've recently helped bring in a new account or complete a successful project.

• It's time for your annual performance review.

• The company you work for is thriving financially.

• It's nearing the time of year your company typically gives raises. 

2. Research salary trends for your position.

To boost your chances for a higher salary, do your research. If your company has a policy and procedures manual, review it to find out about the company pay scale for your position. Explore salary information websites, such as Glassdoor and Salary.com, to learn about pay trends for your job and extra compensation in the form of bonuses and benefits. You can also visit the US Bureau of Labor Statistics website to learn about the average annual pay for people with your job title. Have a specific number or range in mind based on your research and accomplishments, and be ready to confidently request it, backing up your request with a researched rationale.

3. Make a list of your accomplishments.

Before talking with your supervisor about a raise, list your important accomplishments at work, and remember to include actual numbers. Bring your list with you so you can refer to it if needed. To know what types of accomplishments to list, explore a few examples:

• I worked with another team member to acquire eight new clients last year, and we've acquired three so far this year. 

• I headed up the company's fall fundraiser, which brought in $15,000 more than we projected. 

• Since I started here two years ago, I've earned three sales awards. 

4. Schedule a meeting.

Rather than making an impromptu visit to your supervisor, ask if you can schedule a meeting to discuss your salary. If possible, send an email asking your boss if you can talk. You can also ask in person, but make sure you're prepared if they say they have time to meet with you on the spot. 

5. Practice what you'll say.

Before you meet with your boss, know what you want to say. Outline your key points in writing and practice. For extra confidence, practice in front of a mirror or ask a friend or loved one to practice with you and role-play the part of your boss. 

To get an idea of what to say, explore this sample script:

Thank you so much for meeting with me. I've been with [name of company] for over three years, and I really enjoy my job. I look forward to continuing to grow with the company, and I'd like to talk with you about a salary raise based on my current work duties and accomplishments. 

For several months, I've taken on more supervisory duties, such as teaching new salespeople how to use the CRM software and explaining our protocol for sales calls. I really enjoy mentoring new employees, but I'm not sure my salary reflects the added work. 

In addition, I've contributed a great deal to the company since I began working here. I average 23 daily cold calls and have a 17 percent closure rate. I hit or exceed KPIs regularly, and I've built our customer base by 11 percent. I've also won five sales awards since I've been here.

6. Prepare for follow-up questions.

After you've made your pitch for a raise, your boss will likely have questions. Try to anticipate them and answer thoughtfully and professionally. Plan for a compromise in case your boss doesn't agree with your wants. 

Examples of questions your boss might ask include:

• How much of a raise were you thinking about?

• What made you ask for a raise today?

• Would you be open to X amount?

• Would you consider two weeks of paid sick leave (or some other benefit) instead of a raise?

7. Express appreciation.

Regardless of what happens in your meeting, you should always thank your supervisor for their time. When you don't get the desired result, staying professional helps ensure a good recommendation if you decide to look for another opportunity.

After you ask: What to do next

If your boss approves your raise request, express your thanks and continue working hard to prove that you deserve it. 

If your boss needs time to consider your request or confer with someone higher up, don't feel uncomfortable asking for a time frame. It's reasonable for your boss to get back to you within a couple of weeks. 

If your boss declines your request, ask why politely. Then, admit your disappointment and ask for pointers on how you might get a raise in the future. Before you make any decisions about how to proceed, take time to process the situation and continue to present yourself at work professionally. 

Get started with Coursera. 

Asking for a raise at work can help ensure you earn enough money to match your contributions to your organization. Sometimes, you might have to negotiate when asking for a raise. Boost your negotiation skills by taking Successful Negotiation: Essential Strategies and Skills offered by the University of Michigan on Coursera. You'll have the opportunity to learn how to make a negotiation plan, ensure success with key tips, draw up a contract, and assess the results. When you finish the course, you'll get a certificate of completion you can share.

Going into the process well-prepared can help set you up for success as well. Aim for career success by taking online courses or specializations to improve your professional skills. On Coursera, you'll find many options, including Business Strategy Specialization by the University of Virginia, Land Your Next Role by Aptly, and Be Your Best Creative Self by the University of Colorado, Boulder. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)