How to ask for a raise without the awkwardness

A simple plan for asking for more pay, from timing to what to say.

By JobShab editorial team · October 15, 2026

Key takeaways

Pick a good moment, such as after you finish a project or during a review, rather than a busy week.

List the results you delivered, with numbers when you can, and what the work is worth in your market.

Ask for a specific amount or range and explain why, then stop and listen.

If the answer is no, ask what would change it and when you can talk again.

Use the Salary calculator to compare pay per hour and per year.

Article FAQs

What is the main advice in this article?

Pick a good moment. Bring your results. Ask for a number and listen.

Who writes JobShab career advice?

The JobShab editorial team writes it and updates it when things change.

An editor view on which remote roles hold up and which are crowded.

Recruiters scan quickly. Here is how to make the first screen of your resume work harder.

Prepare real stories instead of scripts, and practice them until they feel natural.