Category: Career | Follow-up: ✓ | Read time: 5 min
Someone came to me earning $52K. They knew they were underpaid. They'd been in the role 2 years, taken on more responsibility, but never asked for more money. They were terrified of the conversation.
They got a $4K raise. Here's exactly how.
The Preparation (This Is 90% of It)
You don't walk in and say "I want more money." You walk in with evidence.
Build Your Case
- Write down:
- 3-5 specific things you've achieved in the last 12 months. Not duties — achievements. "Trained 4 new hires" not "responsible for training." "Reduced processing time by 20%" not "handled processing."
- What the market pays for your role. Check Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, Payscale. Get 3 data points.
- Any extra responsibilities you've taken on since your last raise.
Pick Your Number
Ask for 10-15% more than you currently earn. If market rate is higher, ask for market rate. Always ask for slightly more than you'd accept — it gives room to negotiate.
They were earning $52K. Market rate was $58-62K. They asked for $58K.
The Conversation
The Script
"Thanks for making time. I wanted to talk about my compensation. Over the past year, I've [achievement 1], [achievement 2], and [achievement 3]. I've also taken on [extra responsibility]. Based on my contributions and the current market rate for this role, I'd like to discuss adjusting my salary to $58,000."
Then stop talking. Seriously. Say your piece and wait. The silence is uncomfortable but powerful.
If They Say "Let Me Think About It"
"Of course. When can I expect to hear back?" Pin down a date. Don't let it drift.
If They Say "We Don't Have Budget"
"I understand. Can we agree on a timeline and specific goals that would trigger a raise? I'd like to know what I need to do to get there."
If They Say No
"Can you help me understand what would need to change for this to be possible?" This forces them to either give you a roadmap or admit there isn't one — which tells you everything you need to know about your future there.
The Follow-Up
They asked for $58K. Their manager came back with $56K. They accepted. That's $4K more per year for a 15-minute conversation. Over 5 years, that's $20K+ (more with compounding raises).
The thing they said afterward: "I can't believe I waited 2 years to have a 15-minute conversation."
The Honest Bit
The worst thing that happens is they say no and nothing changes. You're no worse off than before. But most people never ask — and that's the real cost.
Need help figuring out your career move? Ask Neady.
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