How to Ask for a Pay Rise: What to Say and When

Asking for a pay rise can feel uncomfortable, and many people wait for their employer to offer one. But a well-prepared request is one of the quickest ways to increase your income, and the effect compounds: a higher salary today raises every future raise, bonus and pension contribution. This guide explains how to ask for a pay rise, from researching what you are worth to what to say in the meeting and what to do if the answer is no.

Step 1: know your market value

Before asking, find out what people in similar roles earn in your industry and location. Look at job adverts that list salaries, salary surveys from recruitment firms, professional associations, and conversations with trusted contacts in your field. If similar jobs pay more than you earn, you have strong evidence for your request. If your pay is already above the market rate, focus your case on extra responsibilities or results instead.

Step 2: build your case on results

Employers give raises for value, not need. Prepare a short list of your achievements over the past year, using numbers wherever possible: sales increased, costs reduced, customers gained, projects delivered, problems solved or new responsibilities taken on. Note any skills or qualifications you have added. Keep a running record of your wins throughout the year, so you are not trying to remember them the night before.

Step 3: choose the right time

Timing matters. Good moments include your annual review, shortly before budgets are set, after a major achievement, or when you have taken on new duties. Avoid asking during a crisis, right after poor company results or when your manager is under heavy pressure. Request a meeting specifically to discuss your pay, rather than raising it in passing.

Step 4: decide on a number

Go into the conversation with a specific figure or percentage, based on your research. Asking for a clear amount shows preparation and gives the discussion a starting point. Consider what you would be willing to accept, and whether other benefits, such as training, flexible working, transport allowance or a better title, would also be valuable if the salary budget is limited.

Step 5: what to say in the meeting

Keep it professional and focused on your contribution. You might say: "I'd like to discuss my salary. Over the past year I have taken on X and delivered Y. Based on my research, the market rate for this role is around Z, and I'd like my pay to reflect the value I bring. I'm asking for an increase to this amount." Then pause and listen. Avoid personal reasons such as rising rent or family costs; focus on value to the organisation. Stay calm, and do not threaten to leave unless you are genuinely prepared to.

Step 6: if the answer is "no" or "not now"

A refusal is not the end of the conversation. Ask what you would need to achieve to earn a raise, and agree specific goals and a date to review your pay again. Ask for this in writing or follow up with an email summarising the discussion. If your employer cannot match the market over time, that is useful information for planning your next career move.

Make the most of a pay rise

When you get a raise, it is tempting to increase spending straight away. Instead, consider directing part of it to savings, debt repayment or your pension before you get used to the extra money. Increasing savings by even half of your raise can transform your finances over a few years. See your new take-home pay with our salary and tax calculators for 11 countries, and read compound interest explained to see how saving the difference grows.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to ask for a pay rise?

During your annual review, before budgets are set, after a major achievement or when you take on new responsibilities.

How much of a pay rise should I ask for?

Ask for a specific figure based on market research and the value you bring.

What should I do if my pay rise request is refused?

Ask what you need to achieve, agree goals and a review date, and confirm them in writing.

How to ask for a pay rise, and what to say