Asking for a raise can be tricky, risky, and awkward. But if you wait too long, you could be giving up more money without realizing it. With the right timing, however, you can maximize your opportunities and get the pay that you truly deserve. In fact, 82% of full-time workers got a raise by requesting one, with the potential to earn around $5,000 more than those who did not ask.
So the question now is: when do you know it’s the right time to make that request? Here are five signs to help you decide and make a bold move for your career.
You’ve Been There For Over 2 Years Without A Raise
Have you spent at least two anniversaries at work? Apart from the usual congratulatory messages, cake, or pizza, you should be seeing a raise, too. Being there for quite a while now likely means that you’ve grown while contributing to the team and the company as a whole.
For instance, within those two-plus years, you’ve become the go-to person for certain tools and processes, a major sales contributor, or even the mini-team lead when your boss isn’t around. With these kinds of milestones, it’s just fair to consider asking for a raise. And if you feel underpaid compared to the same roles in the market, that’s a stronger sign it’s time for a well-deserved salary bump.
You’re Continuously Getting More Responsibilities
Is your role growing, while your pay remains the same? This familiar situation can turn out good or bad depending on how you respond to the issue. Let’s say you started as a copywriter but are now doing the job of an editor, social media manager, or even a project manager. You’re probably training new members, too. Sure, it’s exhausting, and you didn’t exactly sign up for it. But it’s also an opportunity to get clarity.
Make sure you’ve documented those added responsibilities. How long did those tasks take? What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them? By being specific and organized, you’ll be asking for a raise not from emotions but based on real results.
You’re Covering For Someone Who Left But Not Getting A Raise
Are you taking on the responsibilities of someone who has left the team? Your paycheck should reflect that change as well. Filling in temporarily while there’s no replacement is normal. But it’s another story when months have passed and you’re still doing double the work without any boost in your salary.
Again, be ready with all the receipts. Keep track of the extra tasks you’ve performed for a team member and how you successfully delivered despite the heavier workload. This way, when you speak with your boss, you can demonstrate how you stepped up and why it’s reasonable to increase your rates.
You’re Handling A Big Responsibility That Only You Could Do
If you’re single-handedly carrying a responsibility that no one else on the team can handle, that gives you even more reason to make the ask. For example, you’re always the one a sensitive client requests to manage their projects. Perhaps you’re the only one certified to work on a platform or process.
You may have a knack for creating viral content, too. Whether it’s data analysis, initiating unique campaigns, or handling confidential information, you have the right to ask for pay adjustments that reflect the value you add to the team. Being able to fulfill such duties alone just means that you’re not easily replaceable. So have the courage to demand better compensation.
You Keep Getting Tremendous Feedback But Your Pay Hasn’t Changed
Do you often receive commendations from your bosses and senior leaders during meetings, regular check-ins, or even in chats and email threads? If so, that just shows you’re meeting or even exceeding their expectations. They might see a leader in you. But if those praises do not yet translate into higher pay, take the first step to make it happen.
For example, you say, “I’m happy that my hard work and commitment are recognized. Given my contributions to the team, I’d like to discuss how my compensation can better reflect the scope of my role.” There’s not much to prove at this point because they’ve already seen what you bring to the table. All you need is to take the initiative.
Asking for a raise might feel like insisting on something you deserve in the first place. But sometimes, it’s all about timing plus the courage to start the conversation. So, if the opportunity hasn’t presented itself yet, create one — humbly, professionally, and confidently. You’ve got this!