Chapter 07 — Work & Career
How do I ask for a raise?
Book a 30-minute meeting in advance, don't ambush. Bring evidence: results you've delivered, scope you've taken on beyond your role, and a market salary number you can defend. Ask for a specific figure, not 'more'. Best timing: after a clear win, before budgeting season, never right after a bad quarter.
Follow-up questions
How much should I ask for?
A 5–10% bump is normal in a flat market; 15–25% is reasonable if you're underpaid or your scope has grown a lot. For a big jump, an outside offer is usually the lever.
What if they say no?
Ask exactly what would need to be true for a yes, and the timeframe. Get it in writing. If the answer is vague, that's information too.
Is it bad to mention a competing offer?
Only if it's real and you'd actually take it. Bluffing usually backfires; managers compare notes.
Is it better to get a raise or change jobs?
On average, job changes raise pay more than internal raises (often 10–30% vs 3–5%). The trade-off is reset tenure, lost networks, and onboarding risk.
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