JobsDart LogoJobsDart
Career GrowthVerified & Peer Reviewed

How to ask for a raise (and actually get one)

Raises go to people who make a clear case at the right time. Document your impact, check the market rate, and ask for a specific number in a planned conversation — not in passing.

J
JobsDart Editorial
2 min read

Key Takeaways

  • Ask one to three months before budgets are set, not after they are finalised.
  • Bring evidence: results, expanded responsibilities and market pay data.
  • Request a specific number or percentage and explain why it is fair.
  • If the answer is no, agree on concrete goals and a date to revisit.

Choose the right timing

Most companies decide pay increases during an annual budget or review cycle. Asking a couple of months before that window gives your manager time to secure the budget. Good moments include after a major win, after taking on new responsibilities, or when you receive strong feedback. Avoid periods of layoffs or poor company results.

Build your evidence

Make it easy for your manager to argue for you with their own boss.

  • Three to five measurable achievements from the last 6–12 months
  • New responsibilities beyond your original job description
  • Positive feedback from customers, peers or leadership
  • Market data showing pay for your role and level
  • Skills or certifications you have added

What to say in the meeting

Email to request the conversation

If the answer is no

Stay calm and turn the no into a plan. Ask what specific results would justify the increase, agree on a date to revisit (for example, in three or six months), and confirm it in writing. If there is truly no budget, consider negotiating non-salary items: a title change, training budget, flexible hours or extra leave.

If you repeatedly meet goals and pay still does not move, it may be time to test the market. An external offer is often the clearest measure of your value.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much of a raise should I ask for?

Base it on market data and your contribution. For a strong performer in the same role, asking for 5–10% above a standard increase is common; promotions often justify more.

Should I mention another job offer?

Only if you would genuinely accept it. Using an offer as a bluff can damage trust if your employer calls it.

Can I ask for a raise in my first year?

Yes, if your role has grown significantly or you were hired below market. Otherwise, the first annual review is the natural point.

Further Reading & Primary Sources

JobsDart First-Party Tools

Put This Into Practice with JobsDart Tools

Test and apply the principles from this guide directly using our dedicated career tools. Designed to eliminate guesswork and surface verified opportunities.

JobsDart Verified Job Discovery

Direct Recruiter Review

Explore verified global, remote, and corporate tech openings with direct hiring team review and real-time application tracking.

Browse Active Roles

JobsDart Free ATS Resume Checker

Instant Analysis

Validate that your resume formatting and keyword taxonomy match enterprise hiring standards before submitting.

Check Resume Match
J

JobsDart Editorial

Platform Research & Technical Editorial Board

Researched and audited by the JobsDart Technical Career Advisory Team. All guides, ATS benchmarks, and career roadmaps are tested against empirical hiring data, enterprise ATS parsers, and verified recruiter workflows.

Reviewed under JobsDart Technical Editorial StandardsLearn more about our methodology →
All Career Guides