In a business environment rife with budget constraints and layoff fears, asking for a raise can be complicated. Like most important workplace conversations, asking your manager to increase your pay comes down to preparation and timing. Here is some advice designed to help you get to the answer you want.

Consider your motivations. Start by reflecting on why you want the raise and is now is a good time to ask for it. Remember, the case for your raise is not related to your personal needs or even about you personally. Asking for a raise should connect to how your work has changed the company for the better and any data you have about the market value for your role.
Prepare your data. Data is always critical when you’re advocating for yourself. If your company is struggling financially, they will likely have a higher level of scrutiny than usual when making financial decisions. Look at websites like Payscale and Salary.com to get an understanding of the market rate for a role like yours. You can also look at recently posted job descriptions that include the salaries or salary bands of new roles. Talk to recruiters in your industry to see what they think of your salary as benchmarked against your peers, your specialized skills, and your years of experience.
Ask compassionately and clearly. Begin by acknowledging that this may be a difficult time for the organization. Then share your motivation behind asking for a raise. It is will help to reference specific examples that demonstrate how your work has changed the company for the better and any data you have about the market value for your role. Then, make your ask. It’s appropriate to show compassion for your manager’s position, but you don’t need to apologize for advocating for yourself.
Anticipate different outcomes. This could include a pushback. If your raise is lower than you expected, you can discuss this with your manager. Acknowledge the company’s offer and the difficult financial climate, while also reiterating your past accomplishments and future potential for the company. If your manager says it’s not possible for the company to consider your raise at this time, ask if they’d be willing to revisit the conversation in three to six months.

The Economy Is Uncertain. Can You Still Negotiate a Raise?

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