How to Write an Email or Letter Asking for a Raise at Work (With Templates and Examples for 2024)

Updated: Jun 28

Requesting a raise can be daunting. However, in today's digital age, emails offer a powerful and efficient means of workplace communication, including requesting a well-deserved raise.

Here is our comprehensive guide on how to ask for a raise via email, featuring three ready-made templates for your convenience.

Let's dive in!

Should you use email to ask for a raise?

Absolutely, as long as it's done correctly, requesting a raise via email is perfectly acceptable.

Since email is a common mode of communication with your boss, it's logical to use it for asking for a raise as well. However, the key lies in how you craft the email.

We suggest expressing your interest in a raise and requesting an opportunity to discuss your salary with your boss. Instead of directly demanding a raise in the email, clearly state your intentions and ask to schedule a meeting where you can present your case and negotiate terms in person.

Why Timing Matters

Importance of Timing: Choosing the right time to ask for a raise significantly affects your manager's receptiveness and the success of your request.

After Being Hired:

Ideal if you feel the initial offer was below your worth.
Effective when additional responsibilities are assigned that weren't in the original job description.
Management is more likely to adjust your salary to reflect your true role.

On Your Company Anniversary:

Natural milestone to reflect on your contributions and loyalty.
Excellent opportunity to highlight your performance.

After a Performance Review:

Reviews focus on your accomplishments and value to the company.
Provides a solid foundation for your raise request.

How to Prepare for a Raise

A strong raise request is backed by thorough preparation and research. Rather than making bold demands, take the time to prepare your case with these three steps:

Conducting market research is essential. Compare your current salary with the average pay for similar positions.
Utilize online tools like Payscale or Salary.com, but don't rely solely on them. Engage in online forums, such as Reddit, for more accurate information from real experiences.
Base your salary expectations on this data to ensure your negotiation is fair and well-grounded.
Reflect on what you bring to the company. Consider your work contributions, unique skills, experience, and successes.
Understanding your value helps you present a compelling case during negotiations.
Provide concrete evidence of your value to the company. Prepare a list of your primary accomplishments and key contributions.
Include metrics such as positive feedback, success rates, revenue generated, or projects initiated or led.
Present these numbers to demonstrate your productivity and efficiency clearly.

By thoroughly preparing, you enhance your credibility and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome when requesting a raise.

Email Templates you Can Use to Ask For a Raise

Template 1: After Just Being Hired

Subject: Request for Salary Adjustment

Dear [Manager's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am excited to join [Company Name] and look forward to contributing to the team. However, after reviewing the job responsibilities, I noticed that the scope of the role is more extensive than initially outlined. Given these additional responsibilities, I would like to discuss a potential salary adjustment to reflect the role accurately.

I appreciate your understanding and look forward to your response.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Template 2: Company Anniversary

Subject: Request for Salary Review

Dear [Manager's Name],

As I approach my [X-year] anniversary with [Company Name], I have reflected on my time here and the contributions I have made. Over the past [X years/months], I have [briefly list key accomplishments and additional responsibilities].

In light of my contributions and ongoing commitment to the company, I would like to discuss a salary review.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Template 3: After a Performance Review

Subject: Follow-up on Performance Review - Salary Discussion

Dear [Manager's Name],

Following our recent performance review, I wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for your feedback. I am proud of my contributions over the past [review period] and have [briefly list key accomplishments].

Given my performance and the added responsibilities I have taken on, I would like to discuss a salary adjustment.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

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Message Summaries for Faster Response

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AI Drafts to Overcome Writer's Block

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