Introduction: Why Email Can Be an Effective Way to Ask for a Raise
Email can be a strategic tool when requesting a raise especially in today’s hybrid and remote work environments. Whether you’re working from home or find in-person discussions difficult, a well structured and thoughtful email can lay the groundwork for a productive conversation about your salary.
In this article, we’ll cover how to professionally ask for a raise via email, including when to send it, what to say, and how to follow up. You’ll also get access to helpful templates and resources to help you prepare.
Best Time to Ask for a Raise by Email
Timing plays a crucial role in how your raise request will be received. Before sending an email, consider the following:
Performance reviews: The best time is often during scheduled performance evaluations.
After a major achievement: Completed a big project? Closed a key deal? This is your moment.
Company’s financial health: Make sure the company is not facing cutbacks or financial issues.
Your work anniversary: Many companies reassess salaries around employment milestones.
How to Prepare Before Writing a Raise Request Email
Before you hit send, do some groundwork to build a strong case:
Research salary benchmarks: Use tools like Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary to understand market rates for your role and experience.
List your achievements: Create a short summary of your contributions, metrics, and accomplishments.
Know your value: Back up your ask with results that show how you’ve added value to the company.
How to Ask for a Raise by Email: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Use a Professional Subject Line
Make it clear and respectful:
Subject: Request for Salary Discussion
Subject: Follow-Up on Performance and Compensation
Avoid vague or demanding subject lines.
2. Open with Appreciation
Start the email by thanking your manager or acknowledging their leadership. Set a positive tone for the rest of the message.
Example:
I want to begin by expressing my gratitude for your guidance and support over the past [X months/years].
3. State the Purpose Clearly
Be direct but respectful in your request.
Example:
I’m writing to formally request a conversation regarding my current compensation based on my recent contributions and responsibilities.
4. Highlight Achievements and Value
This is the heart of your email. Use 2–3 short paragraphs to showcase:
Major accomplishments
KPIs met or exceeded
Any new responsibilities taken on
Client or team feedback
Example:
Over the past 12 months, I’ve led [X project], which increased [metric] by [percentage]. I also took on additional duties such as [task], contributing to overall team efficiency.
5. Mention Market Research (Optional)
If you’ve found strong data to support your request:
Example:
Based on my research using industry tools like Payscale and LinkedIn Salary, the average salary for similar roles in our region is [insert figure], which is higher than my current compensation.
6. Make a Polite Request
Be clear that you’re open to discussion, not demanding an immediate raise.
Example:
I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss a potential adjustment to my salary that reflects the value I bring to the team.
7. Close Professionally
Wrap up with appreciation and openness to further discussion.
Example:
Thank you for considering my request. I’m open to a time that works best for you to discuss this further.
Sample Email Template for Raise Request
Here’s a complete example you can customize:
Subject: Request for Salary Review Discussion
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I want to express my appreciation for your support and leadership during the past [X months/years]. I’ve truly valued the opportunities to grow within the team.
I’m writing to request a meeting to discuss my current compensation. Over the past year, I’ve taken on additional responsibilities and successfully contributed to key projects such as [Project/Initiative]. These efforts have helped improve [specific outcome or metric], and I believe they reflect the value I bring to our team.
In preparation, I’ve reviewed current market data for similar roles in our industry and location. I’d appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my current salary compares and whether an adjustment is possible.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I’m happy to meet at your convenience.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Job Title]
Follow-Up: What to Do After Sending the Email
If you don’t hear back in a week or two, it’s reasonable to send a polite follow up email.
Follow-up template:
Hi [Manager’s Name],
I wanted to check in regarding my recent email about discussing my compensation. I understand how busy schedules can be and just wanted to see if we could set up a time to talk. I remain committed to my role and look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips for a Successful Raise Request Email
Be concise and respectful: Avoid long, emotional messages. Keep it professional.
Focus on your value: Frame your raise in terms of what you’ve done for the company.
Stay flexible: Be open to discussion rather than demanding a number.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Sending the email at the wrong time (e.g., during company layoffs)
Using an overly casual or emotional tone
Failing to provide achievements or metrics
Comparing yourself to coworkers by name
Additional Resources
These resources provide deeper insights into preparing for and handling salary discussions with professionalism and confidence.
Conclusion
Knowing how to ask for a raise email is a valuable professional skill. By preparing your case with evidence, writing respectfully, and following up appropriately, you improve your chances of a positive outcome. Email is not just a formality it’s your first step in starting a fair and constructive conversation about your worth.
