How young adults can ask for a raise at work

Young adults 18–24 · How-to · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What do you need before asking for a raise at work?

Before requesting a raise, young adults should prepare thoroughly to feel confident and professional. Begin by reviewing your current job duties and any changes since you started. Write down specific accomplishments such as successful projects, extra tasks, or positive feedback from supervisors or coworkers. For example, if you took on additional shifts or learned a new skill that improved your work, note these clearly.

Next, research salary ranges for your position and experience level in your area. CareerOneStop and the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook offer helpful, general information to understand what others earn in similar roles. This helps you set a reasonable raise request.

Also, learn about your employer’s policies on raises. Does your company give annual raises or only after performance reviews? Knowing this can guide when to ask. Check how the company is doing financially—if the company recently announced budget cuts, it might not be the best time to ask.

Finally, prepare mentally by rehearsing your main points and calming any nerves. Practicing with a trusted friend or family member helps you find the right words and tone. Preparing these details will make your request clear and persuasive.

What are the key steps to ask for a raise and why do they work?

1. Pick the right moment: Find a calm time, ideally after completing a project well or during scheduled reviews. Avoid busy or stressful times for your manager, as they may not give your request full attention.
2. Request a private meeting: Politely ask your manager for a meeting to discuss your role and compensation. For example, you could say, “Could we schedule a time to talk about my performance and salary?”
3. Prepare your pitch: List your achievements, extra duties, and skills you’ve gained. Be ready to explain how these help the team or company.
4. Practice your wording: Use clear, polite phrases such as “I would like to discuss the possibility of a raise based on my recent contributions and market rates.”
5. Make your request confidently: During the meeting, calmly share your list of accomplishments and state the raise amount or range you’re seeking, backing it up with your research.
6. Listen carefully: Pay attention to your manager’s response. If they express concerns, ask what goals you should meet to earn a raise in the future.
7. Follow up: After the meeting, send a thank-you email summarizing your discussion and any next steps.

These steps work because they show you are prepared, respectful, and serious about your job. Presenting facts and staying professional makes it easier for your manager to consider your request fairly.

How do you know if your raise request worked?

You’ll know your request worked if your manager agrees to a salary increase or commits to a raise at a certain date. For example, your manager might say, “We can increase your pay by 5% starting next month,” or “Let’s revisit this conversation in three months after you complete the new training.”

Sometimes the agreement might be a smaller raise than you hoped for or include alternative benefits like bonuses or extra time off. If you get a positive response, ask for confirmation in writing—an email works well to clarify the amount and timing of the raise.

If the manager doesn’t give a clear yes or no, ask when you can follow up. A definite timeline shows your request was taken seriously.

Signs it didn’t work include vague answers or no commitment to revisit the topic. However, this can be an opportunity to ask for feedback and set goals for next time.

What should you do if your raise request is denied?

If your manager says no, stay calm and polite. Thank them for their time and ask for specific feedback: “Can you help me understand what I can improve to be considered for a raise in the future?” or “What goals should I work towards?”

Request a timeline for when you might revisit the conversation, such as “Can we talk again in six months?” Setting this plan shows you’re committed to growing in your role.

Use the feedback to improve your skills or take on more responsibilities. For example, if your manager wants you to handle more customer interactions or complete additional training, focus on those areas.

If a raise isn’t possible due to company budget limits, consider negotiating other benefits like flexible hours, more breaks, or additional training opportunities.

Maintain professionalism throughout to keep a good relationship and keep doors open for future raises or promotions.

How can young adults specifically adapt this process?

Young adults may feel nervous asking for a raise for the first time. To adapt the process:

• Start small by having informal conversations with your manager about your progress.
• Use simple, polite language. For example, “I wanted to talk about how I’m doing and if there’s room to discuss my pay.”
• Focus on your eagerness to learn and contribute more.
• Set realistic expectations by researching what entry-level workers in your area typically earn.
• If you’re under 18 or new to the workforce, review your state’s labor laws for young workers to understand minimum wage and allowable hours.
• Practice your pitch several times, perhaps role-playing with a friend or family member to build confidence.
• Remember that asking for a raise is part of developing professional communication skills.

This approach helps make the process less intimidating and shows your manager you are serious about your job growth.

What tips can help young adults prepare for the conversation?

• Write down your main points on paper or your phone to keep the conversation clear.
• Use “I” statements such as “I have taken on extra shifts recently” or “I have improved my skills in customer service.”
• Keep your tone respectful and avoid complaining or comparing yourself to coworkers.
• Dress neatly for the meeting to show professionalism.
• Take deep breaths before and during the conversation to stay calm.
• Be ready to talk about your future goals, such as learning new skills or taking on more responsibility.
• Practice responses to possible questions like “Why do you think you deserve a raise?” or “What raise amount do you have in mind?”

These tips help you communicate your value clearly and respectfully, which builds trust with your manager.

What should you know about pay and labor laws for young adults in the U.S.?

Understanding your rights as a young worker supports your raise request. The federal minimum wage sets a baseline, but states and cities often have higher minimum wages. Know the minimum wage in your state or city by checking government websites.

Also, young workers have protections like limits on work hours and requirements for breaks. If you believe you are not being paid fairly, you can contact the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division for information or help.

If you are paid below minimum wage or not compensated for overtime, this might be illegal. However, raises are discretionary and depend on employer policies and budgets.

Knowing your rights empowers you to ask for fair pay confidently and recognize when you need advice or assistance.

Where can you find more resources about asking for a raise or salary negotiation?

Several reliable resources can help young adults learn how to ask for a raise or negotiate salary:

• CareerOneStop offers guides on salary negotiation and local wage data.
• The article on How Beginners Can Ask for a Raise at Work provides detailed steps tailored for new workers.
• OSHA’s Young Workers section explains workplace rights and safety protections.
• For improving workplace communication skills, consider reading Teamwork for Young Adults at Work.
• To understand salary negotiation strategies specific to young adults, check the Salary Negotiation for Young Adults in USA article.

Using these resources builds your knowledge and confidence to handle pay discussions professionally.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I ask for a raise?

Typically, once a year or after completing a major project or acquiring new skills is best. Asking too often can seem pushy. Align your request with your company’s review schedule if possible.

What if I’m under 18 and want a raise?

You still have rights, but youth labor laws vary by state. Research local minimum wage and work hour rules, and make your raise request politely, focusing on your contributions.

Can I negotiate for benefits instead of a raise?

Yes. If a salary increase isn’t possible, you can ask for perks like extra paid time off, flexible scheduling, bonuses, or training opportunities, which can improve job satisfaction.

How can I reduce nervousness before asking for a raise?

Practice your request out loud with a trusted person or in front of a mirror. Deep breathing before the meeting helps calm nerves. Remember, asking for a raise is a common and reasonable part of working.

What if my manager says the company can’t afford raises right now?

Ask what you can do to improve your chances and when you can revisit the conversation. Use that time to build your skills and demonstrate your value.