Learn how to strategically approach asking for a raise by understanding your value and hearing personal experiences from experts. Explore the difficulties of advocating for oneself when asking for a raise and gain advice on timing, strategies, and making a strong case. Discover approaches and advice for negotiating a raise, including presenting facts, inviting a conversation, and building relationships. Uncover effective strategies for negotiating a raise and learn about additional benefits you can negotiate for. Overcome fears and ask for what you deserve while considering salary parity and bias.
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Quick takeaways
Asking for a raise is a strategic process that starts on day one of your job, focusing on demonstrating value and exceeding expectations, and considering the right timing and internal research on company policies.
When negotiating for a raise, be clear about your worth and contribution beyond your job description, practice conveying your request confidently while sounding authentic and professional, give your desired salary number instead of negotiating against yourself, and justify your request with data and market benchmarks for a stronger negotiation.
Deep dives
Timing and Strategy for Asking for a Raise
Asking for a raise is a strategic process that starts on day one of your job. Lay the groundwork by demonstrating your value and exceeding expectations. Consider the right timing, such as after six months, and make sure to do internal research on company policies. Have two numbers in mind for negotiation. Focus on achieving salary parity or matching external benchmarks. Timing is crucial to avoid waiting until it's too late and the budget is depleted.
Preparing for the Conversation
Before the conversation, be clear about your worth and the contribution you bring beyond your job description. Practice conveying your request confidently, while also sounding authentic and professional. When discussing your desired salary, give your number and avoid negotiating against yourself. Follow up by asking when you can revisit the conversation and document the agreement. Justifying your request with data and market benchmarks can strengthen your case and foster a successful negotiation.
Dealing with Hostile or Disinterested Managers
If your boss seems hostile or disinterested, it may be a red flag about their attitude towards your development. In such cases, it's important to consider other opportunities within or outside the company. When facing resistance, aim to understand the reasons behind the decision in a non-confrontational manner. Planting seeds of future conversations and expressing gratitude can keep the dialogue open and potentially lead to a more favorable outcome.
Negotiating Beyond Salary
Negotiating for more than just salary is possible. Consider asking for additional benefits like tuition reimbursement, professional development opportunities, increased paid time off, or a one-time bonus. Research what's feasible within your company's policies and have alternatives prepared. Remember to document any agreed-upon arrangements and follow up with an email to summarize the conversation and set expectations for future discussions.
Asking for your first raise is a big moment in your career. But how do you know when to ask or how to start the conversation?
Getting a raise isn’t just a conversation about money. It’s a process, and you need a strategy. Author and personal finance expert Anne-Lyse Ngatta, also known as Anne-Lyse Wealth on her podcast, and Gorick Ng, anauthor and career advisor, walk host Elainy Mata through that process.
They break down how to lay the groundwork and do your research, when and how to start the conversation with your manager, and how to navigate the negotiation that may follow.
They also share their own experiences advocating for higher pay early in their careers, and they explain why your timing and your tone are so important to get right. Plus, they take listener questions about asking for a raise.
Have a career question? Let us know at NewHere@HBR.org.