Asking for a Raise PART II

When it comes to finally asking for a raise, preparation is key—but execution is everything.

I’ve taught at length about how to prepare yourself to ask for a raise (spoiler: please don’t want until the big make or break conversation). 

But now… you’ve gathered your data, practiced your talking points, and you’re ready to have “the talk”.

As always, Career Civility is here to provide you with tangible, tactical talking points, examples, and scripts that you can directly implement into your work day so let’s breakdown the 5 key tactics you’ll want to use when you're actually in the room (or on the Zoom call) making the ask for more money.

1. Build a Business Case (and Lead with Data)

You should come into the conversation fully prepared with:

✔️ Documentation of your accomplishments
✔️ Key data points that show your impact
✔️ A clear salary ask (with market research)
✔️ A roadmap that outlines how your contributions will continue to support business goals

Confidence isn’t just a mindset—it’s a byproduct of preparation. If you walk into the room with these elements ready, you’ll already feel in control of the conversation.

2. Relate Your Ask to Business Goals

A raise isn’t just about what you deserve—it’s about what you deliver. Companies pay for value, so your request should be tied directly to how your work contributes to the organization’s success.

Try framing it like this:
💡 “Over the past year, I’ve led [project] and achieved [results]. This work has directly impacted [business goal]. Given my contributions and market data, I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation to better align with my role and impact.”

Pro Tip: If your company is currently budget-conscious, prepare alternative compensation options. Could they offer additional benefits, a title change, or a performance-based bonus?

3. Be Direct and Confident in Your Ask

Once you're in the conversation, don’t dance around the topic—state your case with confidence.

Instead of saying:
🚫 “I was wondering if there’s any chance of maybe getting a raise?”

Say:
✅ “I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation to reflect the impact of my work.”

Your tone should be professional, assured, and fact-based. You’re presenting a well-researched request—not asking for a favor.

4. Anticipate Pushback and Be Ready to Respond

Not all managers will immediately say yes (because they likely don’t have the ultimate power to adjust budget) —so be prepared for potential objections. Give them time (and information) to go to bat for you with upper management.

Here’s how to handle common responses:

❌ “I don’t think this is something we can do right now.”
🔹 Your response: “I understand that budgets may be tight. What would need to happen for my compensation to be adjusted in the next few months? Would we be able to discuss a practical timeline for this?”

❌ “We don’t have the budget for raises right now.”
🔹 Your response: “I understand. Could we discuss other forms of compensation, like professional development opportunities, increased responsibilities, or a performance-based bonus?”

❌ “I don’t think we can justify that amount.”
🔹 Your response: “Can you help me understand what metrics or achievements would justify that level of compensation?”

By expecting objections, you can pivot the conversation instead of being caught off guard.

5. End with Next Steps

Regardless of the outcome, you want to leave the conversation with clarity. Before wrapping up, ask:

✅ “Can you provide clarity on what steps I need to take to move toward this salary adjustment?”
✅ “Can we set a follow-up meeting to revisit this conversation?”

If the answer is yes, confirm timeline details and next steps.

If it’s a no, get a clear understanding of what needs to happen to reach a yes in the future.

I’ll leave you with this, advocating for your worth doesn’t stop at asking—it continues with how you handle the conversation and how you continue to show up at work every day. By staying prepared, communicating effectively, and being proactive, you’ll increase your chances of securing the raise you deserve.

Your next step? Start preparing your case and practice your responses—your future paycheck will thank you!