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How to Ask for a Raise: Proven Strategies to Demonstrate Your Value and Get Results

Updated: Jun 12


A study published in the Harvard Business Review found that employees who ask for a raise are more likely to receive one, especially if they frame their request around the value they bring to the organization. It also revealed that people who negotiate for better pay tend to be more satisfied with their jobs, even if they don’t get everything they ask for (Chung & Park, 2020).


If you're planning to request a raise, engaging with your audience, your manager or employer, is critical. Here are some key strategies to help you do it effectively and professionally.



📌Prepare and Present Your Case

Before initiating the conversation, build a clear, data-driven case that outlines:

  • Your contributions to the company

  • Specific achievements

  • Why your performance justifies a raise

Use metrics and examples to support your arguments, and deliver your message with confidence, professionalism, and brevity.

📊Highlight Quantifiable Impact

Tailor your message based on your role. Showcase how you've added measurable value by addressing one or more of the following:

➤ Generated Revenue

If you’ve brought in new clients or closed deals, specify the revenue you’ve generated. Back this with numbers and real case examples.

➤ Cost Savings

If you’ve implemented cost-saving measures or streamlined processes, quantify how much money you saved the company and cite related initiatives.

➤ Productivity

Highlight improvements in your own or your team’s productivity. Share examples of projects completed ahead of schedule or with exceptional quality.

➤ Customer Satisfaction

Mention customer feedback, client retention rates, or satisfaction scores. Use testimonials or internal performance reviews when available.

➤ Performance Metrics

Use any KPIs your company tracks (e.g., sales targets, customer service response times, project completion rates) to support your case.

🎯 Use a Friendly and Confident Tone

When asking for a raise:

  • Be friendly to foster a collaborative atmosphere

  • Be confident to show you believe in your value

This balance builds trust and makes the conversation more constructive.

🔄 Use Metaphors - Sparingly

Metaphors can help make your point memorable. For example:

"My role is like the foundation of a building, often unseen, but critical to everything else standing strong."

Or:

"I’ve leveled up consistently like a game character, and I’m ready for the next stage."

But remember: don’t overuse metaphors. Keep them simple and impactful.

👂 Practice Active Listening

Engagement doesn’t end when you’ve made your case. Listen attentively to:

  • Your manager’s feedback or concerns

  • Their perspective on budget or timing

  • Suggestions for next steps

This shows that you’re collaborative and open-minded.

🤝 Stay Respectful

Never present ultimatums or adopt an aggressive tone. Frame your request as part of a mutual conversation:

✅ DO: “Hi [Manager's Name], I hope you're doing well. I wanted to have a quick conversation about my compensation. I’ve really enjoyed contributing to the company and believe my efforts have brought value. I’d like to explore the possibility of a raise and appreciate your consideration.”
❌ DON’T: "Hey, boss, I’m frustrated with my salary. I work hard and I’m not being paid fairly. I deserve a raise - so what’s it going to be: a raise or my resignation?"

🌱 Emphasize Your Future Potential

In addition to past contributions, outline how a raise would enable you to:

  • Take on more responsibility

  • Continue to grow professionally

  • Deliver even more impact

This shifts the focus from entitlement to opportunity.

✉️ Follow Up

After the meeting, send a thank-you email to:

  • Express appreciation for the conversation

  • Reiterate your commitment

  • Recap any action points or agreed next steps

Consistent follow-up shows professionalism and long-term engagement.


Why Does Explaining Your Value Matter?

So, why go to all this effort?

  • It gives your manager concrete evidence to support your request.

  • It shows your loyalty and commitment to the organization.

  • It ensures that your compensation aligns with your contributions.


A 2020 PayScale survey found that 75% of employees who asked for a raise received a pay increase. Those who communicated their value effectively were far more likely to succeed (PayScale, 2020).

Additionally, a study in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that employees who feel underpaid are more likely to experience burnout and job dissatisfaction, whereas those who feel fairly compensated are more engaged and loyal (Kim et al., 2021).

If you want to secure a raise, don’t just ask - present a compelling case backed by evidence, delivered with confidence and respect. This approach increases your chances of success and strengthens your professional reputation.

📣 Ready to take the next step in your career?

Whether you’re preparing for a raise or looking for new opportunities in the IT world, we’re here to help.

📩 Contact us today at contact@boostuphr.com for career coaching or recruitment support tailored to tech professionals.


📚 References

  • Chung, K., & Park, H. (2020). How to Negotiate for Your Next Salary. Harvard Business Review, 98(2), 114–123.

  • Kim, T. Y., Cable, D. M., & Kim, S. P. (2021). Too Little, Too Late: The Effect of Underpayment on Burnout and Work Outcomes. Journal of Applied Psychology, 106(1), 26–40.

  • PayScale. (2020). Compensation Best Practices Report. Retrieved from https://www.payscale.com/data/compensation-best-practices-report-2020

  • Robert Half. (2021). 2021 Salary Guide

 
 
 

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