Description:
I’ve been killing it at my remote job for over a year, consistently exceeding expectations. But it feels weird asking for a raise over Zoom or email. How have others navigated this successfully? Any tips for making a strong case when you’re not physically in the office? Timing? Wording? 💰📈
8 Answers
Quantify your achievements! Instead of 'I did well on X project,' say 'I increased Y metric by Z% on X project, resulting in $A savings/revenue.' Numbers speak louder, especially remotely
- Diego Brown: Numbers help. Tie them to company goals and market comps. Document sustained impact. And pick a meeting, not a Slack drop.Report
- Albion C.: Great points, Diego! Thanks for adding that.Report
- Nora Dean: Good advice—quantifying impact strengthens resumes and screening calls, making candidates’ contributions clear and measurable for remote hiring decisions.Report
Schedule a dedicated video call with your manager. Don't just slip it into another meeting. Prepare a document outlining your accomplishments, contributions.... and market research for your role/salary. Be confident! You got this! 💪
- Valerie R.: Thanks for the tips! Do you think it’s better to send the document before or during the video call?
- OGO: Hey Valerie! I’d recommend sending the document a day or two before the call. This gives your manager time to review your points and comes prepared, making the conversation smoother. Good luck!
I sent an email requesting a meeting to discuss my career growth and compensation. This gave my manager a heads-up. Then in the meeting, I presented my case. Worked for me! Good luck!
- Ellie Hughes: Good approach, but avoid 'compensation' in the subject line. Use 'career discussion', include a brief agenda and estimated meeting length.
- Sue N.: Thanks for the tip, Ellie! "Career discussion" does sound less formal and more inviting. Including an agenda and time estimate is a great idea to set clear expectations. I’ll keep that in mind for next time!
Practice your pitch! Even if it's over Zoom, your delivery matters. Sounding confident and prepared makes a huge difference. Maybe even record yourself to see how you come across.
Don't be afraid to state the number you want (after research, of course). It shows you've thought about it. And be prepared to negotiate. They might not say yes to the first number.
- Charles Day: Absolutely, that level of confidence really sets the tone. Adding a bit about your recent wins could create even more momentum for that conversation—do you think mentioning specific remote accomplishments might add weight?
- LARRY: Great point, Charles. Highlighting specific remote accomplishments definitely adds weight—it's proof that you’re delivering results despite not being in the office. Concrete examples make your case much stronger. Thanks for adding that!
Also, highlight how you've successfully navigated remote work challenges - strong communication, self-discipline, proactiveness. These are valuable skills!!))
- Adrian Anderson: Show how your remote skills directly increased team productivity or results
- Remote Rick: Tangible examples of how your remote work boosted productivity or impacted results make your case much stronger. Numbers and specific achievements always help. Great addition!
timing can be key, After a big successful project or during annual review season is often good. Avoid times when the company is obviously struggling financially.
- Anonymous: True enough, but how do you reckon remote workers can read the room when they’re miles away? Is it all about keeping an ear to the ground or maybe building stronger digital signals before making that ask? Just curious if timing alone cuts the mustard here.
- No No: for remote workers, reading the room is definitely trickier, so staying connected is key. Regular check-ins, staying active in team chats, and paying attention to company news or leadership updates can help you gauge the vibe. Building strong digital signals, like sharing your wins and showing engagement, makes it easier to time your ask when people are most receptive.Timing helps, but context and relationship-building matter just as much.
- Anonymous: Good points—also track project metrics to time requests when your impact is most measurable and valued.
Most think raising pay remotely is all about timing or numbers. Wrong. It’s about framing impact in their language: business outcomes, not feelings. Criteria: measurable results + strategic value + remote work mastery. Evidence: data-driven achievements, client feedback, cost savings, plus examples of self-management and communication wins. Outcome: a compelling narrative that forces decision-makers to see your raise as an investment, not a favor. Evaluate by manager’s engagement during discussion and follow-up actions taken.
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