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c/salaries u/devlk Team

How do I ask for a raise without a competing offer?

Team FAQ: this question comes up often, so we've answered it below. Add your own experience, or a different view, in the comments.

Not everyone wants to interview elsewhere just to get a raise. How do you make the case?

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devlk Team·

Make the case with evidence of your value and the market, not with threats.

  1. Pick the right time: a few weeks before review cycles or budget planning, after a strong delivery, or when your responsibilities have grown.
  2. Collect evidence:
    • What you've delivered, with results.
    • New responsibilities you've taken on (mentoring, owning a service, client work).
    • Market data for your role and level, from community salary threads, recruiters and job posts.
  3. Ask for a dedicated meeting about compensation.
  4. Make a specific request:

"Over the past year I've taken ownership of X and delivered Y. Based on that and what similar roles pay, I'd like to discuss adjusting my salary to [number]."

  1. If the answer is no or "not now", ask: "What would I need to achieve to reach that, and by when?" Agree on the goals and a date, in writing.

Keep a running record of your wins (a "brag document") so this is easy each year.

Scripts for offers and raises are in our salary negotiation guide.

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