How to Confidently Negotiate a Raise in English

Asking for a raise is a nerve-wracking experience for anyone. When you have to do it in English as a non-native speaker, it can feel even more intimidating. However, with the right preparation, strategy, and language, you can approach the conversation with confidence and significantly increase your chances of success.

This guide provides the phrases and framework you need. To master this vocabulary and other negotiation phrases, use the specialized decks in the BizVoc app.

Phase 1: Preparation is Everything

Never go into a salary negotiation unprepared. Your confidence will come from having done your homework.

• Research Your Market Value: Use sites like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and Payscale to research the average salary for your role, experience level, and location.
• Document Your Achievements: Create a list of your specific accomplishments since your last review. Quantify them whenever possible (e.g., "Increased efficiency by 15%," "Managed a project that came in $10,000 under budget").
• Know Your Number: Decide on a specific salary or salary range you are aiming for. Be prepared to state it clearly.

Phase 2: Setting Up the Conversation

Request a meeting specifically to discuss your compensation and career growth. Don't ambush your manager during a regular check-in.

• Phrase to request a meeting: "Hi [Manager's Name], I'd like to schedule a brief meeting to discuss my career progression and compensation. Would you be available sometime next week?"

Phase 3: The Negotiation Conversation

Structure the conversation to be a professional, evidence-based discussion, not an emotional plea.

Opening the Discussion

• "Thank you for meeting with me. I'm keen to discuss my future here at [Company Name] and my compensation."
• "Based on my contributions and the value I bring to the team, I would like to discuss the possibility of a salary adjustment."

Presenting Your Case

This is where your documented achievements are crucial. Connect your accomplishments to the company's success.

• "Over the past year, I have taken on additional responsibilities, including [mention 1-2 key responsibilities]."
• "I'm particularly proud of my work on the [Project Name] project, which resulted in [quantifiable achievement, e.g., a 20% increase in user engagement]."
• "My market research indicates that the average salary for a [Your Role] with my experience in [Your City] is between [$$$] and [$$$]."

Making the Ask

Be direct and confident when you state your desired salary.

• "Based on my performance and this market data, I am requesting a new salary of [Your Target Salary]."
• "I believe a salary of [Your Target Salary] would be more in line with my contributions and the industry standard."

Handling the Response

After you make your request, stop talking. Let your manager respond. If they say no or need time, be prepared with a follow-up.

• If they agree: "Thank you. I appreciate your consideration. Can we discuss the timeline for when this change will take effect?"
• If they need time: "I understand. When would be a good time to follow up on this?"
• If they say no: "I appreciate your transparency. Could you help me understand what I would need to accomplish in the next 6 months to be considered for this raise in the future?"

Advocate for Your Value

Negotiating your salary is about professionally advocating for the value you bring to your company. By preparing your case and using clear, confident English, you can turn a stressful conversation into a successful career move.

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