Money Talks: When (and how) to ask your boss for a pay rise

Let’s set the scene. You’re smashing deadlines, juggling tasks like a pro, supporting your team, and somehow remembering everyone’s birthday. But when it comes to asking for a pay rise? You freeze.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Research shows women are far less likely than men to ask for a salary increase, often waiting to be offered one rather than knocking on the door and asking.

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Whether it’s imposter syndrome, fear of seeming “demanding,” or just not knowing the right time to ask, many women end up leaving serious money on the table.

So when is the right time to pop the big question (no, not that one)? Let’s break it down, with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of truth.

First things first: Know your worth

If you’ve been consistently delivering great work, taking on more responsibility, or outperforming your targets, then it’s time to have the chat. You don’t need to wait until you’ve reinvented the company from scratch, your everyday excellence counts too.

So, when is the right time to ask?

1. You’ve taken on more than your original role.

If your job description has quietly grown wings (and tentacles) over the past few months, and you’re now doing the work of two or more people, it’s time. Don’t wait for your manager to notice, you’ve earned that step up.

2. You’ve hit (or smashed) performance targets.

Whether it’s sales goals, project completions, or glowing client feedback, when the receipts are in your favour, use them.

3. It’s been over a year since your last raise.

Annual reviews are a natural time to talk money. But if your company doesn’t schedule formal reviews, set your own reminder. It’s totally OK to initiate the conversation yourself.

4. You’ve upskilled or gained a new qualification.

New skills = new value. If you’ve completed training, learned new systems, or earned a certification that benefits your team or business, that’s a solid reason to bring up compensation.

5. You’ve done your research.

If industry salary benchmarks show you’re being underpaid, that’s data to bring to the table. Knowledge is power, and it’s also proof.

How to ask (without sweating through your blouse)

Schedule a meeting.

Don’t corner your boss by the coffee machine. Book a one-on-one so you can have a focused, professional conversation.

Come prepared.

Bring examples of your achievements, responsibilities, and results. Think of it as your own personal highlight reel.

Be direct, not apologetic.

No “Sorry to ask” or “I was just wondering…” Be confident: “I’d like to discuss a salary increase based on my recent contributions.”

Don’t compare.

Tempting as it is, avoid mentioning what so-and-so earns. Focus on your value, not what others are getting.

Have a number in mind. Know what you’re asking for, and base it on research, not vibes.

And a reminder for every woman reading this:

Asking for more doesn’t make you greedy. It makes you assertive, strategic, and self-aware. You’re not lucky to be here, you earned your spot. The next step? Earning your worth.

So go ahead, book that meeting, fix your crown, and start the conversation. The worst they can say is “not right now.” The best? A bigger paycheck and a proud moment where you backed yourself. And that’s always worth asking for.