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Asking for a raise: how to prepare

Collect proof, check the market, pick the moment and know what you will say when the answer is no.

21 items · 5 sections · career, work, money

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Collect your proof (4)

  • List 3-5 results from the past year, with numbersMoney earned or saved, time cut, customers kept.
  • Note what has grown since your last pay changeNew responsibilities, people you help, projects you lead.
  • Save kind words from customers and colleagues
  • Reread your last review and what you were asked to improve

Check the market (5)

  • Look up pay for your role, city and experience on 2-3 sites
  • Ask people you trust what they see in the market
  • Find out your company's pay bands and review dates, if it shares them
  • Pick a specific number and a rangeA number backed by proof beats a round number.
  • Write down the lowest you would be happy with

Pick the moment (3)

  • Ask for a meeting, do not ambush your managerGive them a reason: "I would like to talk about my pay."
  • Aim for before budgets are set
  • Choose a good moment, such as after a win

In the conversation (4)

  • Lead with results, not with your bills
  • Say the number clearly, then stop talking
  • Leave out colleagues' pay and threats
  • Ask about other things if pay is stuckBonus, title, leave, remote days, training budget.

After it (5)

  • Yes: get it in writing with the date it starts
  • Not now: ask what would need to be true, and by when
  • Book a follow-up date with your manager
  • Send a short note thanking them and listing what you agreed
  • No clear path after 6 months? Quietly look outside

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