Hey there. If you’ve ever stared at your paycheck thinking “Can I survive longer on this?” or “Am I leaving money on the table?”, welcome to the club. Asking for a raise can feel like standing on a stage with no script, but it doesn’t have to be terrifying. Let’s walk through it—honest, a bit messy, but totally you-friendly.
Why Raising Your Hand (Wisely) Matters
First off: Money isn’t just paper. Especially for young people today, it’s confidence, stability, choices, and basically, independence. What’s wild is that not asking for a raise can cost you so much in the long run. As one article pointed out, failing to negotiate could cost you up to a million dollars over the course of your career. That’s not hypothetical—it’s compounding pay increases and opportunities over time.
Some Gen Z grads expect six-figure starting salaries—and while that’s optimistic (national average is closer to $68K), negotiation can narrow the gap. Even a few thousand extra early on can snowball over time.
Talking About Money Isn’t “Ungrateful”
Here’s a mindset shift that helps: Negotiating isn’t greedy—it’s respectful. It’s you recognizing your value—and reminding the employer of it, too. Many Gen Zers are doing it: about 55% negotiated their starting salary, and most of them saw results. Employers? They expect it. So when you don’t ask, you might be leaving money on the table.
Steps to Asking for That Raise (Without Feeling Awkward)
1. Do Your Homework First
You don’t go into battle blind—you gather intel:
- Look up industry standards using tools like Glassdoor, PayScale, LinkedIn.
- Collect real examples that show your value: projects you completed, revenue you helped generate, efficiency you improved. Quantify it if you can.
A pro tip: Bill Gates doesn’t just pitch results—he shares vision. Talk about future potential, not just what you’ve done.
2. Schedule a Meeting (Don’t Spring It On Them)
Drop your manager a message like:
“Hey, do you have 20 minutes this week to chat about my role and compensation?”
Let them know the topic ahead of time—this isn’t ambushing.
3. Begin Conversationally, Not Demandingly
Kick things off gently:
“Thanks for making time. I’ve really enjoyed working on X, Y, and Z lately—especially how we improved A and delivered B.”
Then, say it plainly:
“Considering those outcomes and the standard pay for this role, I’d love to discuss adjusting my salary. Is a 10% raise reasonable?”
Pro tip: Gen Z often lets gratitude do the heavy lifting. “Thanks… by the way, can we talk compensation?” is a solid opener.
4. Be Ready for Pushback… But Not Panic
They might say “that’s not in the budget” or ask for more time. That’s not rejection; that’s conversation.
You can ask:
“Totally understand—what steps should I take to revisit this soon?”
Then send a follow-up email summarizing your ask and timeline.
5. Know Your Value—and Be Ready to Walk Away
If they can’t budge at all, don’t panic. Maybe you can negotiate perks: PTO, flexible hours, training budget.
If nothing budges and your worth isn’t being matched, keep looking. Sometimes the best salary is not just money—it’s being in a place that sees you.
Why It’s Worth It (Even If It’s Scary)
- You set the tone—for your future pay raises and growth.
- You stop the regret later. Most people who didn’t negotiate? They regret it.
- You stand up for yourself. That is confidence in growth clothing.
A Fireside Chat-Style Wrap-Up
We’ve all been there—sweating over numbers, overthinking every word, fearing we’ll sound entitled. But here’s what really hits the heart of it: Asking for a raise isn’t just business—it’s self-respect. It’s you saying, “I’ve earned this, and I’m not overlooking it.”
And guess what? The more you do it—smartly, compassionately, well-prepped—the easier it becomes. It’s not bluffing—it’s positioning.
