Two people having a discussion at a table

How to Ask for a Raise: Scripts and Timing

By /

Waiting to be handed a raise is the slowest way to get one. Most pay rises beyond the standard annual bump happen because someone asked — well, with evidence, at the right time. Asking for a raise feels daunting, but it’s a normal professional conversation, not a confrontation. The key is to make it easy for your manager to say yes by doing the groundwork first. Here’s how, with timing and scripts.

Build the case before the conversation

A raise is granted for value, so your job is to make your value obvious. For a few weeks beforehand, gather evidence: results you’ve delivered (with numbers where possible), responsibilities you’ve taken on beyond your original role, and problems you’ve solved. Also research the market rate for your role, so your ask is anchored to reality rather than a feeling. This is the same value-proof you’d put on a resume that survives ATS filters — concrete, measurable, and about impact, not effort.

Time it right

Timing changes your chances a lot. Good moments: just after a clear win, at a performance review, or when you’ve taken on noticeably more. Bad moments: right after the company’s had a rough quarter, during layoffs, or when your manager is visibly underwater. Don’t ambush them either — ask for a dedicated meeting (“I’d like to discuss my role and compensation”) so they come prepared rather than caught off guard.

What to actually say

Keep it calm, specific, and forward-looking. A simple structure:

  • “Over the past year I’ve [specific results: led X, grew Y, took on Z]. Based on that and the market rate for this role, I’d like to discuss raising my salary to [specific number or range].”
  • Then pause and let them respond. Don’t undercut yourself by rushing to add “but it’s okay if not.”

Name a specific figure or range — backed by your research — rather than a vague “a bit more.” The principles here are the same as a fresh job offer; our guide to freelance vs full-time pay can also help you understand your market worth.

Handle the answer well

If it’s yes, thank them and confirm the details in writing. If it’s “not now,” don’t deflate — ask what specifically would justify a raise and by when, then get that in writing so it’s a concrete plan, not a brush-off. And if raises are genuinely off the table long-term despite strong performance, that’s useful information too — it may be time to explore the market, which our cornerstone on landing a remote job can help with.

FAQ

How do I ask for a raise without sounding greedy?

Anchor the ask to value and market rate, not need. Lead with specific results you’ve delivered and the going rate for your role, and make a clear, calm request — that reads as professional, not greedy.

When is the best time to ask for a raise?

After a clear win, at a performance review, or when you’ve taken on more responsibility — and when the company isn’t in obvious financial trouble. Request a dedicated meeting rather than raising it on the spot.

What if my manager says no?

Ask what specifically would earn a raise and by when, and get that plan in writing. If strong performance still leads nowhere over time, it may be a sign to explore other opportunities.

Asking for a raise is one skill in managing your career. For the bigger picture, read our cornerstone on landing a remote job from India, or browse more Career guides.

Keep reading on Super Rat Machine

Start here — core guides

All articles

Career

Habits

Money

Productivity

Tech

Travel

Scroll to Top