Wondering how much of a raise you should be asking for? Watch our recorded webinar to get tips and insights from the brand new 2022 Canadian Nonprofit Sector Salary and Benefits Report. Click here to watch the webinar.
Why does asking for a raise feel so terrifying?
This uncomfortable phenomenon is likely due to several factors including:
- Money being a taboo topic.
- The implicit power dynamics between an employee and manager.
- Various sociocultural factors.
Despite this, it is important to advocate for your financial worth. Specifically, to take proactive steps to ask for a raise in the most effective and compelling manner possible.
WHY people ask for a raise
While people want raises for various reasons (e.g., inflation, years without a raise etc.), when speaking to your boss it is often best to focus your points around:
- Your above-and beyond efforts,
- Your impact on the organization, and
- Meeting industry wage standards and/or allowing your wage to meet your role’s expanded responsibilities (if applicable).
HOW to prep
Before connecting with your manager regarding a raise, first you should:
1. Compile your major accomplishments. Specifically,
- What you did.
- How did you do it?
- How did it impact the organization?
2. Research the industry’s pay standards. For example, search online for the average salary of similar:
- Job titles,
- Experience levels,
- Sectors,
- Locations.
Job postings, speaking with colleagues, and job-hunting sites are all good places to start.
Asking for a 10-20% raise is common advice, especially if you have taken on more responsibilities. However, 3-5% is typical. When in doubt, ask for a percentage that is a little higher versus lower.
WHEN to ask
Timing in these situations is key. Therefore, some effective times to approach asking for a raise include:
- During a routine performance review.
- After completing a major project.
- When your organization isn’t swamped.
- When your manager has more time and is in a positive mood.
HOW to ask
Depending on your situation, you can ask to speak with your manager in-person or over email, although most professionals recommend email (i.e., to have a written account of the request).
Here is an example:
Hello [Manager’s Name],
Hope you had a great weekend!
Having just completed [recent major accomplishment] and been with [organization name] for [number of years], I would like the opportunity to re-evaluate my [“hourly pay” or “salary”, whichever is applicable] with you.
I feel I bring [skills you bring to the role] which have proven invaluable on our team. Most notably [example(s) and their impact on the organization].
Based on the median salary for similar roles, I feel [amount], which would be equivalent to a [%] raise is reasonable.
I am very grateful for this role and the support you have provided over the years.
I would be happy to find a mutually agreeable day and time to discuss this in more detail. Please let me know your availability and we can arrange a brief meeting.
Thank you!
Cheers,
[Your Name]
During the raise negotiation meeting with your boss,
- Come prepared with a list of your accomplishments.
- Be confident, direct, professional, and show gratitude.
HOW to follow up
Don’t expect your manager to have an answer for you right away. If after 1-2 weeks you don’t hear from them, feel free to send a quick follow up email, or politely follow up in person inquiring about any updates.
Get more tips and strategies to help you successfully negotiate your raise at our free webinar on October 27! We’ll cover important insights from the 2022 Canadian Nonprofit Sector Salary and Benefits Report. Register here.
