Conversation, ESL, # job, money, raise,
Asking for a raise can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you don’t know how to approach the conversation or what to say. But with some preparation and research, you can increase your chances of getting the pay you deserve. In this article, we’ll show you the four steps of asking for a raise, plus a sample script you can use to negotiate your salary with confidence.
Whether you’re looking for a raise because you’ve taken on more responsibilities, you’ve found out your coworkers are making more money than you, or you simply want to be rewarded for your performance, this article will help you craft your pitch and get ready for the big day.
Tips for asking for a raise
Asking for a raise can be a nerve-wracking experience, but there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success:
- Timing:
Choose the right time to ask for a raise. Ideally, you should wait until you have accomplished a significant achievement or project, or if it’s been at least a year since your last raise. Avoid asking for a raise during a stressful or busy time for your manager or the company. - Research:
Research the market rate for your position and industry to ensure that your salary expectations are reasonable and aligned with industry standards. - Performance:
Ensure that you have been performing well and meeting or exceeding your goals consistently. Keep track of your accomplishments and contributions to the company, and be prepared to present them during the negotiation process. - Approach:
Consider the best approach to take. Some people prefer to request a meeting with their manager to discuss the possibility of a raise, while others may prefer to send an email or written proposal. It’s important to choose an approach that feels comfortable and natural to you. - Mindset:
Finally, approach the conversation with a positive and collaborative mindset. Express your enthusiasm and commitment to the company, and be willing to discuss alternative options if a salary increase is not feasible at this time.
Example Script for Asking a Raise in Person
Common request
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I appreciate the opportunity to talk to you about my compensation. I feel that I have been contributing a lot to the company and I believe that my work has been reflecting positively on the team. I was hoping we could discuss the possibility of a raise in my base pay.
I understand that the decision lies with you and I am not sure what your exact criteria for awarding raises are. If you could provide me with feedback on how I can improve my performance or offer any specific examples of what I can do to better contribute to the team, that would be helpful.
I am committed to this company and I want to continue to grow and contribute to its success. I believe a raise would not only help me feel more valued in my role but also motivate me to continue to work hard and exceed expectations.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Formal script asking a raise template
Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I really enjoy working here as a [your role] and I appreciate all the support and guidance you’ve given me.
In the past [time period], I’ve been able to [briefly summarize your achievements and impact]. For example, I [give specific examples of projects, tasks, or goals that showcase your value]. I’ve also received positive feedback from [mention clients, colleagues, or managers who praised your work].
Based on my research, the average salary for [your role] with [your skills] and [your experience] in [your location] is [salary range]. I believe that my performance and contributions warrant a salary adjustment to reflect the market rate.
I’m requesting a [percentage] increase in my base salary, which would bring me to [desired salary]. I think this is fair and reasonable given my accomplishments and the value I bring to the team.
I’m open to hearing your thoughts and feedback on this request. I’m also willing to take on more responsibilities or challenges to prove my worth and grow my skills.
Thank you for your consideration and understanding.
Informal conversation
[Begin with small talk to build rapport and ease into the conversation]
You: Hey [Manager’s Name], how are you doing today?
Manager: I’m good, thank you. How about you?
You: I’m doing well, thanks. I wanted to chat with you about my compensation, if that’s okay.
Manager: Sure, what’s on your mind?
You: Well, I’ve been with the company for [X amount of time] and I’m really enjoying the work. I feel like I’ve been doing a good job and have made some positive contributions to the team.
Manager: Yes, you’ve been doing great work. What can I help you with?
You: I was hoping to discuss the possibility of a raise. I’ve been researching the market rate for my position and industry, and I believe that I’m currently underpaid compared to industry standards.
Manager: Okay, I understand. What is your expectation for a salary increase?
You: I would like to propose a [insert percentage] increase to my salary. Based on my research and my contributions to the company, I believe that this is a fair and reasonable request.
Manager: That’s a significant increase. Can you tell me more about your contributions to the company?
You: Sure. I’ve been consistently meeting and exceeding my performance goals, and I’ve also taken on additional responsibilities beyond my job description. For example, [list specific examples of your accomplishments and contributions].
Manager: Those are impressive accomplishments, and I can see how you’ve added value to the team. Let me review your proposal and get back to you.
You: Great, thank you for considering my request. I’m really committed to the company and I believe that a salary increase would help me continue to grow and contribute even more.
Example Script for Asking a Raise via E-mail
Generic request
Subject: Request for Salary Increase
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I’m writing to express my appreciation for the opportunity to work with this amazing team and to discuss the possibility of a salary increase.
Over the past [X amount of time], I’ve worked hard to achieve my goals and exceed expectations. I’ve been dedicated to the company’s success and have taken on additional responsibilities beyond my job description, including [list specific examples of your accomplishments and contributions].
Based on my research and my contributions to the company, I believe that a salary increase is a reasonable request. I’ve attached a proposal summarizing my case for a salary increase, including industry research and my accomplishments at the company.
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my proposal with you in person. Please let me know if we can schedule a meeting to discuss this further at your earliest convenience.
Thank you for your consideration, and I’m looking forward to hearing back from you soon.
Best regards,
[Your Name][Attach your proposal and supporting documents as separate attachments]
E-mail request template
Subject: Meeting request – [Your name]
Dear [Manager’s name],
I hope this email finds you well. I would like to request a meeting with you to discuss my compensation.
I have been working as a [your role] for [time period] and I have been very happy with my job and the company. I appreciate all the support and guidance you have given me, and I enjoy being part of this team.
In the past [time period], I have taken on additional responsibilities and projects that have contributed to the company’s goals and growth. For example, I have [briefly summarize your achievements and impact]. I have also acquired new skills and certifications that have enhanced my performance and value. You can find more details in the attached document.
Based on my research, the average salary for [your role] with [your skills] and [your experience] in [your location] is [salary range]. I believe that my performance and contributions warrant a salary adjustment to reflect the market rate.
I am requesting a [percentage] increase in my base salary, which would bring me to [desired salary]. I think this is fair and reasonable given my accomplishments and the value I bring to the team.
I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on this request. I am also willing to take on more responsibilities or challenges to prove my worth and grow my skills.
Thank you for your consideration and understanding. Please let me know when you are available for a meeting to discuss this further.
Sincerely, [Your name]
Asking for salary review
Subject: Request for Salary Review
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. It has been a pleasure working for [Company Name] and I appreciate all the opportunities that this organization has provided me with. As you know, I have been committed to delivering quality work and meeting deadlines, and I believe that I have been a valuable contributor to the company.
With this in mind, I would like to formally request a salary review. I believe my work has exceeded expectations and warrants an increase in my compensation. I have attached a copy of my recent performance review, which highlights my key achievements and contributions to the company.
I am committed to my role and have a vested interest in the success of the company. I am therefore open to discussing my expectations and how we can work together to ensure that I remain a valued employee.
If you are open to meeting, I am available at your convenience. I believe any concerns or feedback you might have will help me better understand the company and how I can continue to support its growth.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards, [Your Name]
Example Script for Following Up Request
Following up in person
Hello [Manager’s name], I hope you’re having a good day. I wanted to follow up with you on our meeting on [date] where we discussed my request for a salary increase.
As you may recall, I asked for a [percentage] increase in my base salary, which would bring me to [desired salary]. I based this request on my research of the market rate for [your role] with [your skills] and [your experience] in [your location], as well as my achievements and impact in the past [time period].
I understand that you needed some time to review my request and consult with senior management and HR. I appreciate your consideration and support. However, it has been [time period] since our meeting and I have not heard back from you. I am wondering if you have any updates or feedback on my request.
I would love to hear from you and discuss this matter further. I am still very committed to this company and this team, and I enjoy working with you. I believe that I deserve a fair and competitive compensation that reflects my value and contributions.
Can we schedule a meeting or a call to talk about this? Please let me know when you are available.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Following up via e-mail
Subject: Follow-up on salary increase request
Dear [Manager’s name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to follow up on our meeting on [date] where we discussed my request for a salary increase.
As you may recall, I asked for a [percentage] increase in my base salary, which would bring me to [desired salary]. I based this request on my research of the market rate for [your role] with [your skills] and [your experience] in [your location], as well as my achievements and impact in the past [time period]. I attached a document with more details for your reference.
I understand that you needed some time to review my request and consult with senior management and HR. I appreciate your consideration and support. However, it has been [time period] since our meeting and I have not heard back from you. I am wondering if you have any updates or feedback on my request.
I would love to hear from you and discuss this matter further. I am still very committed to this company and this team, and I enjoy working with you. I believe that I deserve a fair and competitive compensation that reflects my value and contributions.
Please let me know when you are available for a follow-up meeting or call. You can reply to this email or reach me at [phone number].
Thank you for your time and attention.
Sincerely, [Your name]
Following up conversation
Employee: Hi [Manager’s Name], I just wanted to follow up on the salary increase request I made a couple of weeks ago. Have you had a chance to review my proposal?
Manager: Yes, I have, and I appreciate the effort you put into it. However, I have some concerns about the timing of the increase and the budget constraints we are facing.
Employee: I understand your concerns, and I appreciate your feedback. Could you please let me know more about the timing and budget constraints that you’re referring to?
Manager: Well, we’re currently in the middle of a project that requires a lot of resources, and we’re also facing some financial challenges due to unexpected expenses. It may not be the best time for a salary increase.
Employee: I see your point, and I understand the challenges we’re facing as a company. However, I want to reiterate that I’ve been consistently delivering value and making significant contributions to the team. I’m confident that a salary increase would be a fair reflection of my hard work and dedication.
Manager: I agree that you’ve been doing good work, and I appreciate your commitment to the company. Let me discuss this further with the senior management team and see if we can come up with a solution.
Employee: That would be great. I really appreciate your consideration and I’m looking forward to hearing back from you. Thank you for your time and your feedback.
Manager: Thank you for your patience and your understanding. We value your contributions and want to ensure that we’re doing everything we can to retain top talent like you.
Employee: I appreciate your kind words, and I’m committed to continuing to work hard and contribute to the team’s success.
Manager: That’s great to hear. Let’s keep in touch, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Employee: Thank you, have a great day.
