Asking for a raise in 2025 is more than just a conversation—it’s a strategic step in managing your career. With wage transparency on the rise and the job market still adapting post-pandemic, advocating for fair compensation is not only normal, it’s expected. But how do you do it without souring your relationship with your employer? This guide breaks it all down, step by step.
How do you ask for a raise?
1. Choose the right time
What is the financial health of the company?
Timing matters. Asking during a hiring freeze, layoffs, or budget cuts is likely to result in a “not now.” If your company is growing or recently announced strong earnings, that’s a better window.
How is your manager’s workload?
Catch your manager during a calmer period—not right before a big launch, a quarterly review, or while they’re drowning in back-to-back meetings.
When is the best time of year to ask for a raise?
Salary reviews often coincide with annual evaluations or budget planning. Time your ask a month or two ahead of these conversations so there’s room to plan for it.
Have you successfully completed a significant task or project?
Striking while the iron is hot—right after a successful launch or a measurable win—gives you leverage and keeps your contributions fresh in your manager’s mind.
2. Research salary trends
Use tools like Glassdoor, Payscale, Levels.fyi, and even Reddit forums relevant to your industry to get a handle on what someone in your role and geography typically earns.
Look at:
- Market averages for your role
- Pay at similar companies in your area
- Trends in cost of living adjustments in 2025
Having a number in mind shows you’re prepared and objective.
3. Determine how much to ask for
Consider your qualifications
If you’ve gained new certifications, taken on more responsibility, or expanded your skill set, make that part of your pitch.
Make a list of your accomplishments
Quantify results:
- “Cut onboarding time by 30%”
- “Increased team output by 15%”
- “Improved customer satisfaction scores by 20%”
The more concrete the impact, the better.
Identify a target salary range or pay increase
Don’t ask for an arbitrary bump. Instead, come with a clear ask like: “Based on my research and performance, I’d like to discuss a salary increase to the $85,000–$90,000 range.”
4. Schedule a meeting
Request a dedicated meeting with your manager. Don’t ambush them in the hallway or try to squeeze it into a casual catch-up. A simple calendar invite with the subject line “Career Development Discussion” or “Salary Review” works well.
5. Prepare
Rehearse your script
Practice your ask with a friend, a mentor, or in front of a mirror. You want to be confident and clear, not robotic.
Start with an opener
For example:
“I’ve really appreciated the opportunities to grow over the past year, especially taking the lead on [project]. I wanted to talk about aligning my compensation with the added responsibilities I’ve taken on.”
Follow up with specifics
Talk about accomplishments, market data, and your target salary. Stay respectful and open.
6. Be ready for questions
Managers might ask:
- Why now?
- How did you determine your number?
- What else are you hoping to achieve this year?
Be prepared with answers that reinforce your case, not just emotional appeals.
7. Thank your manager
Regardless of the outcome, thank your manager for the conversation. If they say “not now,” ask:
- “What would need to happen for a raise to be possible?”
- “Can we revisit this in three or six months?”
Example script for requesting a raise
“Thanks for taking the time to meet with me. Over the past year, I’ve taken on more responsibility and delivered strong results, including [briefly list 2–3 wins]. Based on market research and my contributions, I’d like to discuss adjusting my salary to better reflect my role and performance. I’m looking for something in the $X–$Y range. I’m open to your feedback and happy to work together on what makes sense.”
Conclusion
Getting a raise isn’t about being pushy—it’s about knowing your worth, understanding your timing, and communicating clearly. With the right preparation and a little strategy, you can advocate for yourself without damaging your workplace relationships. Whether your raise comes now or in a few months, taking the initiative puts you in control of your career path. Don’t wait for someone to notice your value—prove it, ask for it, and plan your next steps from a place of confidence.
