Barbara Corcoran Explains How To Ask For A Raise, by Business Insider on YouTube. 4 min 1 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 1 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Book a short meeting with your manager just to talk about your pay. Do not raise it in a hallway chat or tack it onto another meeting.
Before the meeting, write two lists. One is everything you were hired to do. The other is everything you have taken on since you started.
Open the meeting by walking your boss through both lists. Point out how much more responsibility you carry now and say you are happy to keep taking it on.
Name a specific number. Around 10 to 15 percent is a common ask. Saying a figure out loud shows you have thought it through.
If the answer is no, ask what results would merit a raise. Write the answer down and treat it as your target.
Book a follow-up meeting for a few months later. Bring evidence that you hit those targets and ask again.
If you have an offer from another company, say you are not taking it because you like working there. Then ask your boss to be honest about your future prospects.
Read the reply as a test of how much you are valued. If the answer is vague or dismissive, start looking elsewhere.
Tips and common mistakes
Ask even if you expect a no. The first ask sets up the meeting where you are more likely to get it.
Never use another job offer as a threat. Say clearly that you are staying, or you will be treated as someone on the way out.
Bring numbers, not feelings. Mention clients won, revenue added or projects shipped.
Practice saying your figure out loud before the meeting so it comes out calmly.
Questions
How much of a raise should I ask for?
A common ask is around 10 to 15 percent. Check the going rate for your role first, then pick a figure your list of extra duties can justify.
What if my boss says no?
Ask what specific results would earn the raise. Write it down and book a follow-up meeting to review your progress against it.
Should I mention a job offer from another company?
Only if you plan to stay. Say you are turning it down and ask about your prospects, rather than using it as leverage.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
