How to Ask for a Raise and Actually Get It

Most people are underpaid because they never ask. Asking for a raise is a business conversation, not a personal favour. Prepare the case and pick the right moment.

Know your number Research market rates for your role in your city or industry. Glassdoor, LinkedIn salary data, and recruitment agencies give you anchors. Decide on a specific number, not a vague "more".

Time it right Ask three to four months before the annual budget is set, not after decisions are made. Performance reviews work, but budget cycles matter more.

Build your evidence list Write down three to six concrete contributions from the last year. Revenue you helped generate, costs you cut, processes you improved, and times you stepped up. Numbers beat adjectives.

Use a simple script "I have taken on more responsibility this year, including X and Y. I have researched the market rate for this role and it is Z. I would like to discuss increasing my salary to that level."

If the answer is no Ask what you need to achieve in the next six months to earn it. Get it in writing, then schedule the follow-up. A no with a path is not a dead end.