Asking for a Raise Letter: Would you like to ask for a raise? Have you tried to? While it is a pain to write, you can use a letter to ask for a raise and get what you deserve. This article provides you with asking for a raise letter tips and templates to guide you.
Asking for a Raise Letter Writing Tips and Examples
If you’ve been working for the same firm for a few years and have yet to receive a salary raise, it’s time to take the initiative and request one.
Knowing how to ask for a raise in letter writing is a useful skill that will make you feel more confident approaching management to make a request.
Asking Your Employer for a Salary Raise
Requesting a raise might be intimidating, but it is critical to take ownership of your professional development and ask for the level of compensation you believe is appropriate and warranted.
Consider the timing of your request for a raise while making your request. It could have a significant impact on the result of your request.
It may not be the best moment to ask for a raise if the company has just had financial difficulties. Your request could be dismissed as unworkable or, worse, inappropriate.
If, on the other hand, it has recently secured a new account and is growing and optimistic about the future, now might be the moment.
If management has lately experienced positive results, they should be more receptive to acknowledging their employees’ abilities and investing in their job satisfaction, as this will help them advance.
Pay attention to minor details such as your manager’s workload or your present level of contentment.
Sending the Request
Sending a raise request to someone who is overworked and burned out will hurt your chances of getting it approved.
It’s also a good idea to think about timing in the context of your own work. Have you recently completed a successful project or secured a new client?
A suitable backdrop for a raise request is recent performance successes.
If your yearly review is coming up soon, your raise proposal might be a good fit.
If it’s the middle of the year, and salary reviews are a regular part of the annual review process, it’s probably best to stick to the framework and postpone your increase request.
Consider how long it has been since your last increase, if relevant.
The time range for salary reviews will be determined by company culture, but in general, a year or more should have passed before requesting a raise.
You may wish to ask for a raise at some point, especially if you believe you deserve one. You can express yourself in writing through a salary rise letter if you believe you can make a compelling argument for the raise you wish to request.
This letter will formalize your request and improve your chances of receiving your desired outcome.
Asking for a Raise: Letter vs In-person Request
Several people are hesitant to discuss their pay. This applies to both those in charge of awarding raises and those who are hoping to get them.
In fact, only 43% of respondents in PayScale’s Pay Negotiation Guide said they had ever negotiated a salary in their current field. When asked why they didn’t ask for a raise, 28% said it was because they were uncomfortable talking about money.
Expressing the request in written form alleviates any anxiety you or your boss may be experiencing. It provides your management time to think about your request before responding.
When you decide to write an “asking for a raise letter,” you can better organize your thoughts by crafting facts to support your case, such as “I cut inefficiencies by 25% last year” or “I designed and launched a customer service campaign that resulted in new subscribers.”
A pay raise letter like this allows your supervisor to study and examine the facts without feeling rushed to respond and perhaps deny you without fully considering all your contributions.
Sending a formal request avoids putting your boss in the situation and may open the door to a discussion about your pay and a possible raise.
It also allows you to do your assignment and complete your request as quickly as feasible.
When you write everything down, you don’t have to worry about forgetting what you want to say or tripping over the words.
Furthermore, your letter serves as an official record of your request for a wage raise. For critical business communications, it’s always best to keep a paper trail.
A letter asking for a pay rise details exactly what you’ve asked for and how you’ve asked it, unlike a conversational chat.
Benefits of Asking for a Raise in Writing
There are benefits too for asking for a raise. Now let us see what these benefits are.
1. It offers official paperwork
When making a significant decision, having documentation of the agreement is a good idea (or disagreement).
If you receive a raise as a result of this talk, you can share this paper trail with your company’s human resources department so that the change is reflected in your salary as quickly as feasible.
If you’re denied a raise, you can use this letter or email to start a conversation later.
2. It assists you in preparing your speaking topics
Putting your salary proposal in writing will aid in the organization of your thoughts and the creation of strong arguments for why you deserve a raise.
By writing down your numerous accomplishments and experiences, you can better prepare for any future discussions on the subject and guarantee you don’t forget anything important.
3. It makes both you and your employer feel at ease
Making an argument as to why you merit a raise will give your boss enough time to consider your arguments and present the plea to any senior officials for approval.
It’s preferable to write a letter explaining your reasoning rather than startling your employer with a request they weren’t expecting or completely prepared to handle.
Asking for a raise in person, on the other hand, has the advantage of gaining your boss’s entire attention. You can also measure your boss’s reaction and adjust your discourse accordingly if you have a face-to-face conversation.
However, evaluate the situation -your employer, company culture, precedence, and what works best for you. After that, you go ahead to make a decision. Whatever the case, we will show you what to do before proceeding to ask for a raise from your employer.
What to Do Before Asking for a Raise
Make sure you’re ready to conduct an evidence-based dialogue about your request prior to actually asking for a raise.
First, see how your compensation compares to the industry average for your position and experience level.
You can determine if you are underpaid by comparing pay statistics from the various salary calculators available on job sites like Indeed.
After that, compare your current salary to these averages. Use them to collect evidence that demonstrates your raise request is in line with the industry average for someone with your experience, talents, and role.
It’s also worth checking with your HR department to see how your employer calculates compensation rises.
Review your role’s responsibilities and performance next.
Consider what you’ve accomplished for the organization throughout your time there and why you deserve a raise.
Consider your accomplishments objectively, using headlines with statistics if possible, such as a percentage rise in revenue, the number of new clients brought in or projects completed successfully.
Evaluate what your company values most and show how you’ve delivered on that measure — firms are more likely to respond to requests expressed in the same way they speak.
You’ll be in a better position to rationally debate any comments or questions regarding the industry acceptable amount of your existing compensation if you make sure you’ve done enough study to back up your request.
Things to Include in a Salary Raise Letter
Each part below has everything you’ll need to include in your letter which you’ll be asking for raise, so let’s get started!
1. Recipient Address
Address the letter to your Manager. Remember to send this letter after you’ve asked your boss for a raise. As a follow-up to a previous chat, you’re sending this email to your manager.
2. Title or Subject Line
If it’s an email, you want everything in the email to be as clear and apparent as possible because it is your written pay rise request. Include your name and make it clear that this letter is about your wage increase request so that anyone who reads it later won’t be surprised.
3. Salutations
Keep it simple: “Hi Tina” will suffice. You’ll send this email to your manager after you’ve asked for a raise, so there’s no need for a formal introduction.
4. Introduction and Target Salary
You’ve already sought a raise in salary in a meeting, and this is a means of reminding your boss of it so they can find it when they need it.
We propose putting your market research midpoint before your target salary so that the first number is a market number—a fact-based on outside facts.
That should clear the way for your request, which will appear much more reasonable when delivered right after the market’s midpoint.
5. Amount of Desired Raise
You could represent this figure in dollars or percentages. It is critical to arriving prepared with the wage rise you desire in order to appear prepared, reduce confusion, and expedite the process.
To determine a reasonable asking price, use Indeed Salaries to research the typical wage for your position, experience level, and city. If you’re still in the early years of your job, you might not be qualified for a senior-level wage.
6. Specific accomplishments
This is the most essential section since it explains how much more value you’ve brought to the organization since your last salary. Take your time and do it well because this is why you’re asking for a raise.
What have you accomplished throughout your time with the organization? Make sure your accomplishments are detailed and show how you’ve contributed to the company’s success. Include accurate measurements if possible.
Instead of saying “I increased my number of sales in 2018,” state “I grew sales by 25% year over year, resulting in an extra $40,000 in revenue for 2021.” Include any new talents you’ve acquired and any new or additional duties you’ve taken on throughout your stay with the company.
To emphasize the worth of your job, including a handful of your most recent achievements. This letter does not contain an exhaustive list of everything you’ve ever done for the company. It’s a quick read that makes a compelling case for a raise from whoever controls the purse strings.
7. Mention your Recognitions
Recognitions and accolades are awards or other forms of praise for your efforts. Managers are busy individuals, and they may not notice your excellent job. This is your chance to let them know that your excellent work has been noticed by others, in case they missed it.
Your best results from the previous six months to a year should be highlighted. This isn’t a comprehensive list; rather, it’s a skimmable list that should raise some suspicions.
Remember that the person accepting your pay rise request may not know who you are, so you’re giving them a quick rundown of your achievements to show them why they should be impressed with you because others are.
Before asking for a raise, we strongly advise you to have at least a couple of items in this part, but if your “Accomplishments” section makes a compelling case on its own, this section may not be essential.
8. Repeat Request and Conclusion
Finish your letter by summarizing your pay desire as well as your case. If the reader is in a hurry, this is a one-paragraph summary of your request. Limit yourself to two or three sentences.
9. Your Signature
Keep this part very brief and thank your boss for their time.
Things to Exempt from Your Raise Letter
Try as much as you can to avoid the following phrases in your pay raise request:
‣ Using any knowledge you have of your coworkers’ wage levels to compare your salary.
‣ Using your duration of service at the company as the primary rationale for your raise.
‣ A negative tone, such as whining about your current income and any feelings of under-appreciation.
If your raise request is denied, thank the management for their consideration and patience. Do not react adversely and jeopardize your working relationships or your chances of receiving a raise in the future.
Even if you decide you are unsatisfied with your current income, keep in mind that you will still need your manager to send you a letter of reference someday.
Sample Templates for Asking for a Raise
The following are sample templates that will guide you when writing a salary raise request letter.
Sample 1: Asking for a Raise via Printed Letter
Mr. Charles,
Thank you very much for the opportunity you’ve given me as a sales representative for XYZ Company.
I’ve evolved tremendously as a professional over the last three years, deepened my grasp of the sector, improved my skill set, and taken on numerous new responsibilities. For these reasons, I would want to request a compensation modification.
My salary has stayed unchanged since January 2019, as you are aware. I’ve accomplished the following since then:
For the previous three quarters, I’ve consistently fulfilled my monthly quota and exceeded my targets.
Personal sales have climbed by over 20% year on year, bringing in an additional $400,000 in revenue.
I’ve earned all senior sales qualifications, including ones that aren’t required for my position.
Five new junior sales reps have been effectively trained and mentored by me.
I’d like to seek a 5% raise in my base salary, which is in line with the average salary for a sales professional with my level of experience in our region.
If feasible, I’d like to meet in person to discuss my desire. I am willing to work with you to meet this requirement and am willing to negotiate. Please let me know when the ideal time is to discuss this further.
Sincerely,
Dickson.James
Sample 2: Asking for a Raise via Email
Subject Line: Jennifer Duke – Meeting Request.
Hi Janet,
I wanted to drop you a line to see if we could meet to discuss my remuneration now that the XYZ project is behind us and we’ve all settled back into our usual routines.
As you are aware, I started as an intern at ABC Corp two years ago and was hired at a wage that was somewhat below the pay band’s average, with the understanding that we would examine my pay at the next review.
Of course, since then, we’ve all been too preoccupied with meeting our deadlines to worry about anything else.
I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had the chance to begin my career with mentors like you and Jack and to continue to learn in such a rapidly growing firm.
I’ve cheerfully worn numerous hats over the last two years, including project lead on our most recent project. Furthermore, I’ve always exceeded my own expectations while never missing a deadline.
I’ve also continued to expand my knowledge by enrolling in UX design classes.
According to my analysis, a 10% increase would be appropriate. I’d be delighted to meet with you and discuss this in person.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Duke
Junior Graphic Designer
ABC Corp,
Sample 3: Asking for a Raise in Text Format
Hi Susan,
For the past three years, I’ve loved working at XYZ Sales Company. During that time, I’ve grown into an important member of the sales team and found new methods to contribute to the firm.
For example, throughout the last year, I have accomplished the following objectives:
Last quarter’s highest-ranking salesperson in terms of customer satisfaction
Added two new high-profile clients to the organization, resulting in a 10% increase in total sales revenue.
Incoming sales workers were given 80 hours of volunteer service to train.
I believe I have exceeded the expectations we set for my job when I first joined the organization three years ago.
As a result, I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss raising my salary to reflect my current performance. I’d like a 6% wage increase, which I believe represents both my existing abilities and industry averages.
I am grateful to be a part of this organization once again, and I appreciate taking on tasks that allow me to contribute to the group.
Thank you for your consideration. I forward to speaking with you soon.
Sincerely,
Duke James
Sample 4: Letter from Hiring Manager Asking for a Raise
Dear [name of the person to whom you report],
I’m writing to request a pay increase for my current position. I’ve raised my role much beyond expectations in my [number of years] years in my function, as reflected in the initial job description.
During my tenure, for example, I designed and implemented the following initiatives:
‣ Redesigning the onboarding process to boost employee retention and engagement
‣ Setting up a new PTO policy that saved the company [dollar amount] while also being understood and accepted by the employees [other efforts]
In addition, in the coming year, I intend to create and implement the following initiatives:
‣ Streamline the application process to save time to hire for your firm.
‣ Introduce performance management software with improved documentation and tools for tracking staff progress [further objectives]
This work most closely correlates with a “HR Business Partner” role, according to Compensation.com, where the typical salary in our area is [dollar amount].
For further information, go to this page. With that in mind, the salary raise I’m asking for will be more in line with what the open market pays for my profession.
Thank you for giving my suggestion some thought. I look forward to working with you to reach a settlement arrangement.
[name]
Sample 5: Email Letter for Mostly Absent Manager
Here, you’ll need to plan a meeting because you don’t have one scheduled.
Because you’ll also need to plan a precise time, it’s advisable to send a short email saying you’d like to schedule a meeting to discuss your remuneration. Make sure to give a few times when you’ll be accessible so that your boss can pick the one that works best for them.
To: [Your Manager]
Subject Line: Are you available for a meeting next week?
Hi, [Manager’s Name].
Are you available next week for a quick meeting to discuss my compensation? It won’t take long, and I was hoping to see if we might find a few minutes soon.
Here are some days and times that appear to be mutually beneficial:
[Date], [Time] on [Weekday]
[Example] Tuesday, January 5th, 10 a.m.
[Example] Tuesday, January 6th, at 2:15 p.m.
Do any of those times fit your schedule? If not, please offer some times that work for you, and I’ll find one that does as well!
Thank you for your consideration!
[Your name here]
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Sample 6: Email Letter for Mostly Present Manager
If you meet with your manager on a regular basis, even if it’s only once a month, that’s the ideal moment to propose a raise. All you have to do is alert them so that they can prepare for the meeting and possibly conduct some research to see what options are available.
You might send a fast email or even a quick instant message to say that you’d like to discuss your salary in your next in-person meeting.
Here’s an email template you may use to alert your boss that you’d like to discuss a raise during your next one-on-one meeting:
To: [Your Manager]
Subject: A topic for our next in-person meeting
Hi, [Manager’s Name].
Do you mind if we chat about my salary for a few minutes during our next in-person meeting? I simply wanted to check if we could set out a couple of minutes for that topic. It won’t take long.
Talk to you soon!
[Your name here]
Tips for Asking for a Raise Letter
The following are important guidelines to pay attention to when writing a raise request to your employer.
1. Know when to ask
When it comes to asking for a raise, timing is everything. Although it may appear obvious, there are numerous aspects to consider before selecting when is the best moment to ask. Concerns can include the organization’s current financial situation and whether or not it is peak season.
2. Provide specifics
Check out job sites that are available online to see if your compensation is comparable to others with your experience, who are in the same position, and who reside in your area. This will assist you in determining the appropriate pay raise percentage for both you and the employer.
3. Prepare yourself
Know exactly what you’re going to say and how you’re going to say it. Always practice the interaction beforehand to feel more at ease while asking for a raise. You can reduce anxiety and remain relaxed and confident if you take the time to practice with a script.
4. Decide how you’ll ask
Setting up a formal meeting where you may ask the question in person is always the best option. Maintaining a private and professional dialogue allows for a more personal exchange in which both sides feel comfortable discussing the subject.
5. Conduct salary research
If the amount you ask for isn’t in line with the realities of today’s employment market, you’re not going to get very far. Completing your own thorough study can assist you in determining what a competitive wage for someone in your position and location is.
Researching the figures will also show your manager that your compensation request is based on solid data rather than your own estimation.
6. Submit the request
Make the request once you’ve researched your wage range and determined the best moment to bring it up. Explain to your manager that you’d like to connect to discuss your remuneration.
Make a clear and succinct outline of your influence. Prepare a list of persuasive bullet points that detail how you’ve excelled in your current position.
Don’t bring up your employees’ salaries or any personal motives for seeking more money.
Request a meeting with your manager to discuss the compensation you’re asking for next in the letter. Set the tone appropriately if this is the first time your supervisor hears you want more money. Consider sending an email with a sentence or two like this:
Could we have a quick conversation about my compensation or devote a few minutes during our next one-on-one meeting to that topic?
If you have a performance evaluation coming up, inquire ahead of time: Would it be OK if we talked about my remuneration during my performance review?
If you’ve already stated a desire for a raise, you should go ahead and detail your request. A line like this could appear in your email: We’ve talked about my desire for more money, and after doing some study, I’d like to propose a salary increase of X%.
7. Prepare to back up your claims
Even with meticulous planning, preparation, and timing, your boss may still be hesitant. Be ready to respond to any follow-up inquiries they may have. Your employer may have reservations, so make sure you have all the facts you need to make a clear and polite request.
Explain how you arrived at the salary amount you’re requesting in a longer letter requesting a raise. Numbers are persuasive, so include them in your success descriptions: money saved, revenue earned, services improved, responsibilities assumed.
Your request should represent the value you contribute to the role, goals you’ve reached or exceeded, outcomes you’ve delivered, and industry averages based on your job abilities and years of experience.
Just as it did during your wage discussions when you interviewed for the job. When you’re ready to answer tough questions about why you deserve a raise, it’s simpler to set your nerves aside.
Proper Letter Arrangement When Asking for a Raise
The following format is how you should arrange your letter when asking for a raise in writing.
‣ First Paragraph -Introduce Yourself and Your Request
Explain why you’re writing, your role, how long you’ve been with the company, and briefly why you think your work merits a raise in the opening paragraph of your letter.
Your opening phrase is also crucial after the meeting begins. You want to project a sense of serenity, assurance, and relaxation. And you should never apologize for taking your time, so don’t say things like, “Sorry for taking your time.”
‣ Second paragraph – Your Achievements
List your accomplishments in the role, including any credentials, awards, or honors you’ve received. These should be communicated concisely and quantified whenever possible.
Do not assume that management is aware of the specifics of your job or accomplishments. Highlight your best firm accomplishments utilizing percentages, statistics, and time frames to sell yourself.
If possible, explain how your efforts have benefited the company’s bottom line.
Your request is more likely to be heard and approved if you can demonstrate that you are a useful asset.
Making a bullet point list of your accomplishments draws attention to the information and makes it easier to read and digest.
‣ Third Paragraph – What You Are Requesting For
After describing your accomplishments in paragraph two to demonstrate your worth to the organization, the third paragraph of your letter should state the specific amount, percentage, or range of pay raise you are requesting.
Keep it brief and to the point. Make it crystal clear what you want from management. Reference your wage trends research to back up your suggested number.
If you believe you are underpaid, point out the disparity between your present salary and the typical industry wage for your level and region.
However, keep in mind that making direct comparisons between yourself and your coworkers can lead to unneeded conflict.
‣ Fourth paragraph- Include a Call to Action
The final paragraph should include a polite request for a meeting to discuss your wage raise and a courteous signature.
Below is a sample:
At a time that is convenient for you, I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my pay raise further. I’m fine with waiting till my performance assessment in a fortnight or attending a separate meeting if that’s what’s needed.
I’d want to convey my gratitude for the help and possibilities I’ve received since joining ABC, and I’m looking forward to continuing to contribute to the company’s growth and development.
Thank you for taking the time to evaluate my request; I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Judith.
To Whom Should You Address Your Raise Request?
Your increase request should be directed to the person in charge of wage decisions for your team, such as your manager or department head.
Even if you are line managed by someone who does not have such obligations, you should approach them first and explain your goals.
Avoid talking over someone’s head and provoking unneeded conflict.
Make your request clear and ensure it reaches the desk/inbox of the person who can take action.
Sending your pay request letter as an email attachment is now the norm. Make sure the enclosed letter is properly prepared and written in a professional tone.
The simplest method to start a pay increase dialogue is to submit a raise request that outlines the value you offer to your employer.
To firmly back your request, do your study on average industry earnings and carefully analyze your achievements in the role.
A letter that is specific and proportionate in its requests while also demonstrating the quality of your work has a much better chance of gaining a meeting for further discussion.
If you have any questions concerning Asking for a Raise Letter Writing Tips and Examples, please feel free to use the comment box below and ask us your question. We will be very pleased to answer you.
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