How to Request a Raise
Requesting a raise can be uncomfortable, but it comes with the territory of moving up in your career. If you never ask for more money, you may severely limit your lifetime earnings since most cost-of-living raises are calculated based on your existing salary. Moreover, new jobs often ask what you’re making to decide what to offer you.
If you excel in your position and the market supports it, it might be time to ask for a raise. Using a raise request letter can alleviate some of the discomfort of negotiating. Here’s a sample letter to request a raise and some tips for making your case as strongly as possible.
What Is the Purpose of a Request Letter?
When we think of negotiating salary, most of us picture in-person discussions. But having a face-to-face conversation isn’t the only way to ask for a raise. Sending a raise request letter in writing can be a good way to open a salary negotiation.
Usually sent via email, a raise request letter lays out your request and makes the case for why you deserve it. It may stand alone or be a precursor to a more in-depth, in-person discussion.
Why You Should Ask for a Raise in Writing
If you’re nervous about asking for more money (and most people are), a letter requesting a raise can help things go more smoothly. Unlike in a live conversation, where you might lose your train of thought or get shut down by your boss’s objections, a letter allows you to make your case thoroughly and say precisely what you want to say.
On the other side of the negotiating table, a raise request letter gives your boss more time to fully consider your request before responding. It’s a great way to give them an idea of where your head is before you have a deeper conversation in person.
Finally, requesting a raise in writing creates a paper trail. This can be helpful if you’re considering leaving the company and want to document why, especially if you’re being underpaid and the higher-ups refuse to meet you at a more competitive salary.
When Should You Make a Request?
You’ve done your homework
The most critical factor in requesting a raise is whether your performance–and the larger market for your job–supports it. Research what similar positions pay in your area and at similar companies to find out. If what you’re already making is at the top end of the pay scale for your job, you might be better off asking for a promotion so you can take on more responsibility and in turn, justify a higher wage.
You’ve considered the timing
Usually, you should be in your job for at least a year before requesting a raise. Until then, making meaningful contributions supporting being paid more is tricky. The exception is if the position turns out to be vastly different from what the job posting described or if you’re asked to take on more responsibility than what you were initially hired to do. Also, you don’t want to ask for a raise shortly after receiving one, even if it is your annual cost-of-living pay increase.
What to Include
Why you’re requesting a raise
Outline the reasons a raise makes sense right now.
Specific examples of your accomplishments
Try to tie these to direct outcomes for the company, like financial gains or increased productivity.
The number you’re asking for
Even if you’re open to negotiating, naming a figure sets a starting point for the conversation.
Your gratitude
It sets a more positive tone if you express your thanks for the opportunities you’ve been afforded in your role.
What to Leave Out of Your Letter
- Negative emotions. Your request should be focused on conveying what you’ve accomplished for the company, not airing your grievances about being paid unfairly.
- Personal details. Life circumstances like your rent going up or a family member becoming ill are not valid reasons to ask for a raise. Use only work-related arguments to make your case.
Sample Letter for Requesting a Raise
Mr. Jackson,
I have greatly appreciated the opportunity to serve as the administrative assistant for the Cleveland office. During my three years in the role, I contributed significantly to the office’s workflows and record-keeping procedures.
A few examples of this include:
- Transitioning all paper records to a fully digital format
- Establishing standard protocols for naming, requesting, and printing documents
- Setting up an online portal office employees can use to request time off and log PTO
- Stepping up to train the incoming administrative assistant at the Pittsburgh office
In light of these accomplishments, I feel that now is an appropriate time for a conversation about my compensation. I would like to request a pay raise of 7%, which reflects my current responsibilities and the market standards for my position.
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet and discuss the above request in person. Once again, thank you for the opportunity to continue contributing to the company.
Sincerely,
Sarah Goldenberg
By quantifying your accomplishments and keeping your tone confident yet professional in your raise request letter, you’ll set the stage for a productive conversation with your boss that hopefully ends with a bigger number on your paycheck.
