If you work remotely or in a hybrid office, knowing how to ask for a raise the right way can help you get the salary you truly deserve. This guide will walk you through the steps using simple, clear language so that anyone, even a first-time employee, can follow along.
In 2025, most work conversations are happening online. Emails, Zoom calls, Slack messages, and virtual meetings are now the norm. That includes conversations about money. If you are planning to ask for a raise, doing it digitally and professionally is not just acceptable, it is expected.
Why You Need to Ask for a Raise in 2025
Salaries do not automatically rise with your skills. In fact, many employees remain underpaid because they never ask. If you have taken on more tasks, helped grow your company, or performed well, you deserve more pay.
But here is the thing. Employers are not mind readers. You have to speak up. Learning how to ask for a raise shows confidence, self-worth, and maturity. And in 2025, there are better tools than ever to help you do it.
1. Know the Right Time to Ask
Timing matters when it comes to asking for more money. Some of the best times to ask for a raise include:
- After completing a big project successfully
- During your annual or quarterly review
- When your responsibilities increase
- When your team shrinks and you are doing more work
- When the company is doing well financially
Avoid asking during layoffs, financial troubles, or right after receiving negative feedback.
2. Research the Market Before You Ask
Before you ask for a raise, you need to know your value. Go online and search platforms like Glassdoor and Payscale. Look for the average salary of someone in your role, industry, and location.
Let’s say you are a digital marketing associate in Lagos with two years of experience. If the market average is ₦300,000 per month and you are earning ₦230,000, you have a strong case to ask for a raise.
Being able to say, “Based on market data, people in similar roles earn X,” makes your request sound professional and informed.
3. Track and List Your Achievements
This step is crucial. You cannot just ask for a raise because you feel like it. You need to show why you deserve it. Create a simple list of your recent wins, such as:
- Increased sales by 25% from email campaigns
- Managed 5 client projects successfully
- Helped train two new staff members
- Handled customer service issues with 90% satisfaction
Be clear and specific. Numbers help a lot. When you ask for a raise, these achievements will prove your value.
4. Choose the Right Format
You can ask for a raise during a video call, voice call, or email. But don’t just blurt it out in a casual chat. Book a proper time with your manager. Send a message like this:
“Hi [Manager’s Name], I’d like to set up a short meeting to discuss my role and future here. Let me know a time that works best for you.”
If it is a remote company, video or voice calls are usually best. If you choose email, keep it polite, structured, and clear.
5. Practice What You Will Say
When it is time to speak, don’t ramble. Structure your pitch like this:
- Start with appreciation
- Mention your accomplishments
- Share your research
- Ask clearly and confidently
- Be open to feedback
Here is an example:
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to work here. Over the last six months, I’ve led three successful campaigns that increased customer engagement by 40%. Based on my contributions and the current market range, I’d like to ask for a raise of 10%. I believe this reflects the value I bring to the team and I’m excited to keep growing here.”
Simple. Clear. Professional.
Also Read: 7 Powerful Steps to Use AI Tools to Enhance Your CV in 2025
6. Be Ready for Objections
Your manager might say:
- We don’t have the budget now
- Let’s revisit this in a few months
- Other team members are earning the same
Don’t panic. Stay calm. You can reply:
“I understand. What goals or milestones should I meet to make this possible in the next review cycle?”
This shows you are flexible but still serious.
7. Follow Up After the Meeting
Whether the answer is yes or no, always follow up. Send a short email saying:
“Thanks for taking the time to discuss my role. I appreciate your feedback. I’ll continue working towards the targets we talked about and look forward to checking in again.”
This leaves a good impression and keeps the door open.
8. If You Get the Raise
Celebrate, but stay professional. Say thank you and keep doing your best work. Do not let your performance drop after getting more money. In fact, use it as motivation to do even better.
9. If You Don’t Get the Raise
Don’t get discouraged. Ask for clear feedback. Write down the steps your manager gave you. Then take action. Hit those targets. After 3 to 6 months, you can ask again.
If there is still no progress and you feel stuck, it may be time to start looking elsewhere. You deserve to grow in a place that values you.
10. How Often Should You Ask for a Raise?
There is no fixed rule. A good guideline is once every 12 months or after major achievements. Don’t wait too long, and don’t ask too often. Once a year, with clear results to show, is ideal.
Tips for Remote Workers Who Want to Ask for a Raise
If you work remotely, here are a few extra tips:
- Keep your accomplishments visible in shared dashboards
- Use Slack or email to update your manager regularly
- Don’t let distance make you invisible
- Schedule regular check-ins
- Ask for feedback often
When it is time to ask for a raise, your results will speak for you. Being calm, prepared, and respectful is what makes your request powerful.
Also Read: Remote Work Opportunities Nigerians Can Apply for in 2025
Conclusion
In 2025, asking for a raise is not just a physical conversation anymore. It is digital, strategic, and easier than ever if done right. Knowing how to ask for a raise with confidence and facts will set you apart from others who stay silent.
You work hard. You bring value. You deserve fair pay. The only thing standing between you and a better salary may just be the courage to ask.
So start planning. Your next raise might be one simple, smart conversation away.
