How to Respond to a Low Salary Increase Email

You've put in the work the entire year and are convinced you're getting a significant salary increase. However, when the much-awaited email comes, the raise isn't what you expected. It's lower. Getting a low salary raise can feel like a kick to the gut, especially if you've been working hard and are convinced of your value to the company.

While it's understandable to feel a range of emotions, including anger, it's best to take some time to reflect and approach your employer calmly. DoNotPay's 'Negotiate My Salary' product is a good approach on .

Three Helpful Tips to Negotiate a Low Salary Increase

Do your homework.

The first step in is to do your research. Learn about the market salary trends for people in your position. Compile all the data and statistics you can find regarding salaries in your field to prove that the pay raise isn't at par with what is standard.

Make your value known.

If you're going to fight that low salary, you need to understand your value and relay that to the relevant authorities. Gather all documentation of your qualifications, accolades, and certifications. If you've been taking up extra responsibilities or your job description has increased in the past few months, ensure your employer knows about it, with evidence to prove that the low raise was unfair.

Be firm but understanding.

When responding to the email, be firm in what you expect from the negotiation. Be firm and persistent but try to understand the low pay raise from the manager's point of view. To do so, you can consider the financial health of the company and the general workload.

Avoid mentioning your personal needs.

Possibly, you asked for a raise due to increasing personal expenses. When fighting that low pay raise, it's important not to mention your personal needs. Instead, focus on your achievements and accomplishments.

Apply for a promotion.

A low pay raise may be due to budgetary issues in the company or is what the company can offer for your role. If this is the case, you can apply for a promotion if you feel you're qualified for it. You need to have an excellent track record and have proven you can handle the extra responsibility. Getting a promotion fast tracks your journey towards the salary you deserve.

How to Ask For a Raise

You may be wondering . Here are a few steps that can help you ask for a higher raise.

Ensure the time is right.	Timing is a crucial factor in helping you get a higher raise. The best timing can be after you've successfully completed a series of projects or have received an award or recognition for your job. You can use this time to reiterate your value to the company and address the low pay raise.
Set an appointment.	Setting a meeting with your employer ensures you have their full attention with zero distractions. It also helps you convey your thoughts regarding the pay raise and articulate your issues without rushing.
Have a figure in mind.	Once you have the appointment, have a number in mind. This preparedness saves you from the trouble of fumbling when your employer throws the question of how much you would like your way. Having a figure in mind lets the employer know you've been doing your research and understand your market value.
Rehearse.	Before walking into your appointment, ensure you're ready for the meeting. Rehearse beforehand what you're going to say to avoid making things up as you go. Rehearsing also allows you to be prepared for any 'Nos" and gives you the ability to remain calm. Go over what you're going to say numerous times. If you're renegotiating the low salary increase via email, ensure you pass your letter through a spell checker and go through it twice to catch any errors.

Ask For a Salary Increase With DoNotPay

It's natural to wonder once you get it, especially if you had high hopes of how it would all go. If you're having trouble coming up with what to say or respond to, DoNotPay has a solution that works in four simple steps.

Search for 'Negotiate My Salary' on DoNotPay.
Fill in your company's name and the industry you're in for us to compile wage statistics in your field.
Write your achievements and qualifications.
Enter your preferred base salary.