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GUIDE · CAREER MONEY

How to Ask for a Raise

What to say, when to ask, and what if they say no.

Photo: Olenka Kotyk olenka_kotyk / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

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§ 1 · CAREER

Know Your Worth

Check BLS wage data, job postings and salary sites for your role in your city.

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§ 2 · CAREER

Set Three Numbers

Pick a floor, a target and a stretch. Ask near the stretch. Never go below the floor.

Photo: Shixart1985 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

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§ 3 · CAREER

Build a Brag Sheet

List results with numbers: sales, savings, new duties and people you trained.

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§ 4 · CAREER

Time It Right

Ask after a big win and before next year's budget is set, often in the fall.

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§ 5 · CAREER

Book the Meeting

Ask for 30 minutes on the calendar. Never ambush your boss in a hallway.

Photo: Breather breather / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

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§ 6 · CAREER

Make the Ask

Thank them, share your wins, name a number. Then stop talking and let them think.

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§ 7 · CAREER

If They Say No

Ask what it would take. Get goals in writing and a date to revisit.

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§ 8 · CAREER

Other Things to Ask For

A bonus, a new title, extra time off, paid training or a higher 401(k) match.

Photo: Fabrice Florin, Aaron Arcos / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

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§ 9 · CAREER

Skip These Mistakes

No threats, no coworker comparisons, no asking by text. Follow up by email.

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Thanks for Reading

Word-for-word scripts and answers to every "no" in our full guide.

Photos: Wikimedia Commons (credits on each page)