Requesting a raise is a standard part of career management that demonstrates self-worth and commitment to your growth. Framing the request as a professional, well-reasoned discussion is an expected step in your career progression. This process is a business conversation about your performance and market value.
Preparing to Ask for a Raise
Before writing your request, you must do your homework. This phase involves gathering objective data to build a logical and persuasive case for why a salary increase is warranted.
A foundational step is to research your current market value. Consult online salary guides and calculators which break down compensation ranges by profession, location, and experience. Reviewing job postings for similar roles in your area also provides real-time data on what companies are willing to pay for your skill set. This research ensures your request is aligned with industry standards.
Next, document your accomplishments since your last compensation review. Create a list of your contributions, focusing on achievements that impacted the company. Quantify your successes with metrics whenever possible, such as improving a process’s efficiency by a certain percentage or leading a project that resulted in cost savings. This provides concrete evidence of the value you deliver.
Structuring Your Raise Request Email
With your research and list of accomplishments prepared, you can structure the email. Each component of the message is designed to guide your manager through your reasoning. The goal is to present your case confidently and open the door for a conversation.
Crafting an Effective Subject Line
The subject line should be direct and professional, clearly stating the email’s purpose without being demanding. Vague or casual subject lines can be overlooked or misinterpreted. Opt for clear options like, “Discussion about Compensation,” “Following up on Performance,” or “Salary Review Request – [Your Name].”
Writing the Opening
Begin the email by expressing appreciation for the opportunities you’ve had with the company. Following this, state your purpose directly. For example, “I am writing to request a review of my current salary based on my performance and contributions over the past [time period].”
Highlighting Your Accomplishments
In this section, concisely summarize your contributions and the results you delivered. You can introduce this by saying, “Over the last year, I have successfully [describe a key achievement or project].” You could mention leading a project that increased efficiency, contributing to a client acquisition, or taking on new responsibilities.
Connect these accomplishments to the value you bring to the company, using specific examples and metrics. For example, you might state, “My work on the quarterly marketing campaign led to a 10% increase in lead generation.” Another example is, “By streamlining our reporting process, I reduced time spent on weekly updates by five hours.”
Making the Specific Ask
After presenting your accomplishments, state your request clearly. Based on your market research, you should have a specific salary or percentage increase in mind. You can phrase the ask by saying, “Based on my research of industry standards and my contributions, I request a salary of [specific amount].”
Present this direct statement with confidence. The figure you propose should be well-reasoned, reflecting your market value and the impact you have made. This shows your manager you have thought carefully about your request.
Closing the Email Professionally
Conclude your email by proposing a meeting to discuss your request in more detail. You can write, “I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further. Please let me know what time works best for you.” This demonstrates that you view the email as the start of a conversation. Always end by thanking your manager for their time and consideration.
What to Avoid in Your Email
Certain missteps can undermine a request for a raise. Avoid turning the request into an ultimatum. Threatening to quit if your request is not met creates an adversarial dynamic and can damage your relationship with your manager.
Keep the focus on your professional contributions and market value. Do not cite personal financial needs, such as rising rent or family expenses, as justification. Similarly, refrain from complaining about your workload, expressing feelings of being underappreciated, or comparing your salary to that of a coworker.
Timing is another factor. Avoid sending your request at an inappropriate time, such as during company-wide layoffs or when your manager is dealing with a crisis. Sending the email during a period of stability, or after a personal success like completing a major project, increases the likelihood of a positive reception.
Following Up After Sending the Email
After sending the email, the process is not over. Your follow-up approach is important, and patience and professionalism are paramount during this stage.
If you do not receive a response within a week, send a polite follow-up. You could send a short email that says, “Just wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding my compensation. I’m eager to discuss this when you have a moment.” Alternatively, you could bring it up during a regularly scheduled one-on-one meeting.
If the answer is “no” or “not now,” respond professionally. Thank your manager for considering your request and use it as an opportunity to discuss your future growth. Ask for specific feedback on what you need to accomplish to be considered for a raise in the future. Inquiring when the conversation can be revisited shows your commitment to the company.