Feb 13 / Richa Bansal

How to Negotiate a Raise Without Hearing “No”

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Earlier in my career, I asked for a $25K raise, and the management immediately said NO.

Here’s what I wish I had done differently.

I was the top performer at my level, and my results spoke for themselves.

So when I asked for a $25K raise, I expected a discussion.

Instead, I got an immediate no.

No counteroffer or explanation.

Looking back, I realize I approached the conversation the wrong way.

If you are also looking for a raise, here's how you should go for it.

→ Tie your raise to business results
Raises are rarely about how hard you work - they’re about the impact you create. Instead of saying, “I believe I deserve this raise,”

say this ↴

“Over the past year, I led [X initiative], which resulted in a [Y% increase in revenue/cost savings/process improvement].

I also took on [additional responsibility], which allowed the team to [specific outcome]. Given this impact, I’d like to discuss adjusting my compensation to reflect my contributions.”

→ Strengthen your BATNA
What’s your fallback if they say no?

If you have A competing job offer

A strong internal sponsor advocating for you

A no-fail network to lean on

… you'll be in a much stronger position.

Because when a company knows you have other opportunities, you suddenly make yourself twice as attractive.

If the management still doesn't agree - consider your next move.

And that’s when you have to decide:

Am I still growing in this role?

Is my work being valued?

Do I have a real path forward here?

If the answer is no, it’s time to explore new opportunities.

If your current company isn't paying what you deserve, the fastest way to a raise is often a job switch.

I didn’t walk away that day, but I did learn how to negotiate the right way.

And once I did, everything changed.

Have you ever been denied a raise? What did you do next?
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If you’re ready to position yourself for a raise - or a higher-paying opportunity, apply for The Fearless Hire It's my career accelerator for ambitious women who want to land $200k+ leadership roles in tech on their own timelines.

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Whenever you are ready, here are 3 ways I can help:

1. THE FEARLESS HIRE: The only career accelerator for mid-senior women that are ready to land their next $150k - $400k job offer. Get the proven playbook, personalized coaching, and accountability you need to build your career on your own timeline, and become recession-proof. 

2. WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP ACCELERATOR: The only women's leadership accelerator for mid-senior women across the Government of Canada. This 6-month leadership program will give you the confidence, skills and network you need to fast-track your growth to executive roles.

3. PARTNER WITH PINKCAREERS: Bring our award-winning keynotes, training and women's leadership programs to your organization to solidify your DEIB efforts. 

Your dream career begins here.

Every Saturday, get one actionable strategy to level up your confidence, career, and compensation in less than 5 minutes.
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