How to ask for a raise (and get it)

A raise is rarely given — it's asked for, and it's granted to people who make it easy to say yes. The work is in the preparation, not the conversation.

Build the evidence file

For three months, keep a running list of what you delivered and its impact: projects shipped, problems solved, numbers moved. "I led the migration that cut costs 18%" is an argument; "I work hard" is not. Your manager has to justify the raise upward — give them the ammunition.

Know the market number

Look up the salary range for your role and seniority in your region. Walk in with a specific, defensible figure, not a vague "more." Anchoring on data makes the request a business discussion, not a favor.

Pick the moment

Timing matters: after a visible win, during a review cycle, or when you've just taken on more scope. Avoid moments of company stress. Ask for a short meeting specifically about compensation so it isn't squeezed into a status update.

Make the ask cleanly

State what you've contributed, what the market pays, and the number you're asking for — then stop talking. Silence is not your enemy. If the answer is "not now," ask exactly what would need to be true in six months, and get it in writing.

Use ReayonAI's salary benchmark to ground your number before the conversation.