A salary request letter is a written document that an employee uses to formally request a salary increase from their employer. This letter outlines the reasons why the employee believes they deserve a raise and provides supporting evidence such as their contributions to the company, their skills and qualifications, and market research on average salaries for similar positions.
While it is possible to request a raise verbally, having a written letter can help ensure that all important points are covered and can serve as a reference for both the employee and employer. A salary request letter can be customized and printed to create a professional and formal document that can be submitted to the employer.
Why Should You Use a Salary Request Letter?
Using a salary request letter has several advantages:
- Clarity: When requesting a raise, it is important to clearly articulate your reasons and provide supporting evidence. A salary request letter allows you to organize your thoughts and present them clearly and concisely.
- Professionalism: A printed and well-formatted letter demonstrates professionalism and seriousness in your request. It shows that you have taken the time to prepare a formal document, which can make a positive impression on your employer.
- Documentation: By putting your request in writing, you create a record of your request and the employer’s response. This can be useful for future reference or if you need to provide evidence of your request.
How to Write a Salary Request Letter
Writing a salary request letter requires careful thought and preparation. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Research and Gather Information
Before writing your letter, gather all the necessary information to support your request. This includes researching average salaries for your position and industry, documenting your accomplishments and contributions to the company, and considering any additional qualifications or certifications you have obtained.
2. Address the Letter Properly
Start your letter with a professional salutation, addressing it to your immediate supervisor or the appropriate person in the company who has the authority to grant a raise. Use their formal title and last name, such as “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Ms. Johnson.”
3. Begin with an Introduction
In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and state the purpose of your letter. Explain that you are writing to request a salary increase and briefly mention the reasons why.
4. Provide Supporting Evidence
In the next few paragraphs, provide specific examples of your accomplishments, responsibilities, and contributions to the company. Highlight any significant projects you have completed, positive feedback from clients or colleagues, and any additional responsibilities you have taken on since your last salary increase. Use quantifiable data whenever possible, such as increased sales numbers or cost savings.
5. Discuss Your Qualifications and Market Value
In this section, emphasize your qualifications, skills, and any additional certifications or training you have obtained. Compare your current salary to the average salary for your position in the industry to demonstrate that you are being underpaid relative to market value.
6. State Your Request and Justify the Increase
Clearly and straightforwardly, state the amount of salary increase you are requesting. Justify your request by reiterating your contributions to the company, your qualifications, and the market research you have conducted. Be confident but not demanding in your tone.
7. Express Appreciation and Closing
In the final paragraph, express your appreciation for the employer’s consideration of your request and state that you are looking forward to their response. Sign off with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name and contact information.
Example of a Salary Request Letter
Dear Mr. Johnson,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally request a salary increase. Over the past two years, I have consistently exceeded my sales targets, resulting in a 30% increase in revenue for the company. Additionally, I have taken on additional responsibilities, such as training new sales representatives and implementing new marketing strategies.
I have also completed a certification course in advanced sales techniques, which has further enhanced my skills and qualifications. According to my research, the average salary for sales representatives with similar experience and qualifications is $X per year, which is significantly higher than my current salary of $Y.
Therefore, I am requesting a salary increase of $Z, which I believe is a fair reflection of my contributions to the company and my market value. I am confident that my performance and dedication to the company warrant this increase.
Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to discussing this further and appreciate your timely response.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 123-456-7890
Additional Tips:
- Be specific: Provide specific examples and quantifiable data to support your request.
- Be confident: Express confidence in your abilities and your contributions to the company.
- Be professional: Use a formal tone and proper business formatting.
- Do your research: Gather information on average salaries for your position and industry to support your request.
- Focus on the company: Highlight how a salary increase will benefit the company and contribute to its success.
Download The Salary Request Letter Template!
A salary request letter is a valuable tool for employees who want to ask for a raise formally and professionally. By following the steps outlined above and using a conversational but professional tone, you can increase your chances of success in obtaining the salary increase you deserve. Remember to provide specific examples, justify your request, and express appreciation for the employer’s consideration. Good luck!
Salary Request Letter Template Word – Download
