Understanding the Right Time to Ask
Here’s the truth: timing can make or break your raise request. Ever walked into your boss’s office during budget cuts? Yikes. But ask right after delivering a major project or during your performance review? That’s gold.
Take Sarah, a marketing coordinator who just crushed a product launch. She timed her raise ask during her annual review—right when the company’s success was fresh. Boom. Approved.
- Best times to ask:
- Right after performance reviews
- Following major wins
- When the company’s financial health is solid
- Pre-budget planning season
- After new responsibilities land on your plate
Choosing the right moment shows professionalism. And let’s be honest, it just makes sense.
Doing Salary Research
Would you negotiate a raise with zero data? Nope. That’s like showing up to a poker game blindfolded. You need salary research. It gives you leverage, confidence, and proof.
Mary, a savvy software engineer, used Payscale and LinkedIn to see what similar roles earned. Turns out, she was underpaid. She brought salary data to her boss, backed with graphs and stats. The result? A pay bump.
Here’s how to arm yourself:
- Know your average salary for your job title
- Pull salary data from trusted platforms
- Compare roles with similar responsibilities
- Reference compensation trends
- Use industry standards to your advantage
Assessing Your Own Performance
Look in the mirror—would you give yourself a raise? If yes, great. If not yet, time to dig deep. Your performance is your pitch. It’s your raise request foundation.
Jake, a customer success pro, tracked his KPIs, noted positive feedback, and saved every win. When the raise convo came up, he had receipts, literally. Charts. Emails. Metrics. He didn’t just ask; he proved.
Be like Jake:
- Document your recent accomplishments
- Note any exceeded expectations
- Highlight added or shifted responsibilities
- Align your work with company goals
- Use specifics (no vague “I worked hard” statements)
Preparing Your Raise Request
Claire drafted her request in writing first. She led with gratitude, cited metrics, and even titled the email “Salary Adjustment Discussion.” She then rehearsed her points and scheduled a short meeting. Nailed it.
Raise prep must-haves:
- Write a concise, professional request
- Use a clear subject line (avoid “Quick chat”)
- Include salary research and accomplishments
- Mention cost savings or value adds
- Schedule a short meeting to present
Making the Request
Deep breath, it’s go time. Walking into that meeting might feel nerve-wracking, but remember: you’ve earned this.
Start warm. Appreciate the opportunity. Then get to the point. David, a financial analyst, began with, “I’ve loved growing in this role. I’d like to talk about aligning my salary with my recent contributions.” Boom, respectful, confident, direct.
Key reminders:
- Be respectful, not apologetic
- Speak clearly and keep it conversational
- Lean on your data and value
- Listen actively
- Stay calm even if the response isn’t immediate
Handling Objections or Delays
Not all raise requests get an instant “yes.” And that’s okay. What matters is how you respond.
Ben was told “not right now.” Instead of sulking, he asked, “What would need to change for a yes in three months?” That simple question showed maturity. Guess what? He got that raise three months later.
If your raise is delayed:
- Ask for specific improvement areas
- Get a follow-up timeline
- Suggest extra responsibilities or stretch goals
- Stay positive and solution-focused
- Keep communication open
Following Up and Planning Ahead
Don’t let the conversation end with “We’ll see.” Following up is how you keep momentum.
Lisa sent a thank-you note after her raise meeting. She restated her interest and offered to provide more data. Six weeks later? Her manager brought it up in budget talks, and approved the raise.
After the ask:
- Email a thank-you within 24-48 hours
- Recap key points and next steps
- Document the discussion
- Ask for a review timeline
- Keep showing your value consistently
Pay Raise Data Table
Key Statistics for Successfully Requesting a Pay Raise
| Factor | Statistic/Insight | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Average Raise Percentage | 3% to 5% annually | U.S. Bureau of Labor Stats |
| Common Raise Timing | Performance review or fiscal year-end | SHRM |
| Impact of Salary Research | 75% of successful requests included salary data | Payscale |
| Importance of Job Performance | High performers are 2x more likely to receive a raise | Harvard Business Review |
| Employer Response Time | Most raise decisions occur within 2–4 weeks | Glassdoor |
| Popular Raise Format | Written request followed by a short meeting | Indeed |
| Effect of Industry Benchmarking | 80% more persuasive when using industry salary standards | LinkedIn Salary Insights |
| Manager Approval Drivers | Performance, cost savings, and positive feedback | Gallup Workplace Research |
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, SHRM, Payscale, Harvard Business Review, Glassdoor, Indeed, LinkedIn, Gallup
Common Questions About Asking for a Pay Raise
Below are common questions we get asked.
What is the best time to ask for a pay raise?
The ideal time to ask for a pay raise is during a performance review or shortly after completing a major project. Aligning your raise request with the fiscal year or when your company is doing well financially increases your chances. Timing it strategically ensures your manager is more receptive.
How can salary research help when requesting a raise?
Salary research provides hard data on salary range and industry standards. When you discuss salary, backing your request with research on average salary and similar roles shows your professionalism and preparation. It positions your raise request as fair and market-aligned.
What should be included in a written raise request?
A written request should clearly state your current salary, desired raise, recent accomplishments, and justification based on added responsibilities or cost savings. Use a strong subject line and maintain a professional tone. Providing salary data and positive feedback supports your argument.
How do I respond if my raise request is declined?
If your raise request is declined, stay professional. Ask for feedback, request a timeline for a future discussion, and inquire about what performance improvements are needed. Understanding your employer’s reasoning and company’s financial health helps you better prepare for the next opportunity.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when asking for more money?
Avoid asking without preparation or making emotional appeals. Don’t compare yourself to coworkers. Skipping salary research or discussing salary during a stressful period may backfire. Ensure you emphasize your value, track record, and recent accomplishments in a calm, data-driven way.
How do I start the conversation about a salary increase with my boss?
Schedule a short meeting in advance. Start with appreciation, then mention your positive relationship and performance. Share your research, raise request, and the value you bring. Use clear, concise language and stay open to discussion. It’s a professional, important discussion, treat it as such.
