Know Your Worth: When (and How) to Ask for a Raise That Reflects Your Value

It’s year-end, and maybe you’re wondering: Is now the right time to ask for a raise?

Here’s the truth: It’s not just about the calendar. It’s about value. About alignment. About stepping into the next chapter of your career and life feeling clear, confident, and ready to advocate for yourself.

Too many women wait for someone to notice. We hope our results speak for themselves. I know I did that a lot throughout my career.  But here’s what I learned along the way: You can’t outsource your worth. You own it.

🎯 When to Ask for a Raise — Based on Facts, Not Just Feelings

Use these concrete triggers to assess whether now is a great time to speak up:

• You’ve taken on more responsibility. Are you leading a team now? Managing more clients? Doing work that wasn’t originally part of your role?

• You’ve completed a successful project. Launched something new? Saved the company time or money? Helped drive growth? That’s leverage.

• Your results are measurable. If you can point to clear performance outcomes, you’ve got a great foundation.

• You haven’t had a raise in over a year. If you’re still delivering but your compensation hasn’t grown, it may be time to realign.

• Your market value has changed. If roles like yours are paying more in your industry or geography, use that data in your conversation.

• You’ve upskilled or gained new certifications. Additional training = added value.

  
  

💬 What to Say (and How to Prepare)

Before you ask, take time to:

• List specific examples of your impact (data, results, wins).

• Compare your compensation to market averages.

• Practice the conversation. Say it out loud:

  
  

  “I’d like to revisit my compensation based on my contributions this year and the evolving scope of my role.”

  
  

✅ If You Get a Yes

• Express your gratitude.

• Clarify the new compensation details.

• Ask how you can continue to grow and contribute at a higher level.

  
  

This is momentum. Own it.

❌ If You Get a No

• Stay calm and curious. Ask:

  “Can you share what needs to happen for a compensation adjustment to be possible in the next few months?”

• Request a specific follow-up timeline.

• Document the conversation.

• Decide: Are you willing to wait, or is it time to explore new opportunities that better reflect your value?

  
  

💡Final Thought: Your Raise Isn’t Just About Money

It’s a signal that what you do matters and your work is seen.  That you are showing up fully in your life and career — and refusing to settle for less than alignment.

You don’t have to do it all at once. You just have to take the next aligned step. Ready to take the lead in your life? I’m here to help you do it—your way. Dreaming of your next steps....