Raise Negotiation Script
A word-for-word conversation guide for asking for a raise. Use this as a template and personalize it with your own data.
The 5-part negotiation script
"I'd like to discuss my compensation. I've done some research into current market rates and I want to share what I found."
"Based on salary benchmarks for my role and location, the market median is higher than what I'm currently earning. I have the specific numbers here."
"Given this data, and the contributions I've made to the team, I'm requesting a salary adjustment to [your target]. This brings me in line with market rates for my experience level."
"I understand budget constraints. Could we discuss a timeline — perhaps [target] within 6 months tied to specific goals we agree on today?"
"I'm committed to this role and I want to find a path forward together. What would it take to make this happen?"
Tips for using the script
Practice the script out loud before the meeting so it sounds natural.
Replace [target] with your specific number — get it from our free salary audit.
Have your market data printed or on screen so you can reference it easily.
Silence after making the ask is normal — don't fill it. Let them respond.
If declined, ask "What would need to change for us to revisit this in 6 months?"
Get a script personalized with your actual salary data
Your Income Audit includes a custom script with your exact numbers filled in.