Asking for more money at work can feel uncomfortable, but it gets easier when you approach it with preparation and the right timing.

A raise is not just about asking, it’s about showing that you’ve earned it.

Here are three things to keep in mind before you have the conversation suggested by Indeed, a employment opportunities and job vacancies site:

Start with your work

Before you ask for anything, check that you’re doing what you were hired to do. Go back to your job description in your contract and make sure you’re meeting every responsibility listed. If you’re already doing well, that’s a strong starting point. If there are areas you’ve missed, look for ways to step up and support the team.

Taking on more work, especially duties that are in your contract but haven’t been part of your day to day, shows initiative and proves you’re ready for the next level.

Choose the right moment

Most companies review salaries once a year, and that’s an obvious time to ask. But you don’t have to wait. One smart option is to bring it up on your work anniversary, the day you were first hired.

It’s a natural marker to reflect on what you’ve achieved since you started, and it shows you’re paying attention to your growth in the company. Picking a date that’s meaningful makes the conversation feel planned, not random.

Keep it about the job

When you speak to your manager, don’t focus on personal reasons for needing more money. Everyone has bills and goals, but that’s not what drives salary decisions. What matters to your employer is the value you bring in.

Talk about your contributions, the responsibilities you’ve taken on, and the results you’ve delivered. Frame it as a discussion about fair pay for the work you do, not about your personal circumstances.

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