You Need More Money At Work
Let's keep it real—asking for more money is HARD, especially when you're in those entry-level or middle management roles where everyone acts like you should just be grateful to have a seat at the table. But listen, your skills have value, and it's time we talked about how to make sure your paycheck reflects that!
Know Your Worth (And I'm Not Talking Self-Care Sunday)
Before you walk into that meeting, do your homework:
- Track your wins: Been crushing those quarterly goals? Saving the team time with that process you improved? Document it ALL.
- Research the numbers: Sites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary Insights are your BFFs. Know what others in your position are making. Make sure you’re taking where you live into account.
- Talk to your network: Those happy hours with industry friends aren't just for venting—they're intelligence gathering. (Just keep it casual, "So what's the going rate for someone doing X these days?")
Timing Is Everything
Don't just burst into your manager's office demanding cash. Strategic timing is key:
- After completing a major project (when your value is VISIBLE)
- During your performance review (when money talk is already on the table)
- When you've taken on new responsibilities (but before they become "just your job")
- When the company's doing well (not during layoffs, obviously)
The Conversation Blueprint
1. Start confident: "I'd like to discuss my compensation to better align with my contributions to the team."
2. Bring receipts: "In the past year, I've increased department efficiency by 20% and brought in three new clients."
3. Name your number: "Based on my research and performance, I'm looking for a salary adjustment to $X."
4. Then zip it: Let them respond! The awkward silence is a strategy, not a mistake.
Hurdles You Might Face (And How to Jump Them)
The "No Budget" Excuse
Them: "There's just no budget right now."
You: "I understand budget constraints. Could we discuss a timeline for when this might be possible, or explore other benefits like additional PTO or flexible scheduling in the meantime?"
The "You're Not Ready" Line
Them: "I think you need more experience before we consider a raise."
You: "I appreciate that feedback. Could we outline specific goals or skills that would qualify me for an increase? I'd like to create a clear path forward."
The Comparison Game
Them: "Other team members at your level aren't making that much."
You: "I understand, but I'd like to focus on my specific contributions, which include [insert your standout achievements]. My request is based on the value I bring to the mission."
The Vague Response
Them: "Let me think about it and get back to you."
You: "That sounds good. When should I follow up with you on this?" (Then PUT IT IN YOUR CALENDAR and actually follow up!)
If It's Still a No...
Sometimes even your best pitch doesn't land. If that happens:
- Ask for specific feedback on what would make a yes next time
- Request smaller perks (remote work days, professional development budget)
- Start looking elsewhere (sometimes the biggest raises come from job changes)
- Plan to revisit in 3-6 months (not a year!)
Remember This
Asking for more money isn't greedy—it's business. Companies expect negotiation, and the worst they can say is no. For the women: Your male colleagues are asking (trust me on this), and you should be too.
Your work has value. Your time has value. YOU have value. Now go get paid what you're worth!
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What specific part of asking for a raise makes you most nervous? I'd love to help you work through that particular challenge! Send me a note!