Asking Your Boss for a Raise or Time Off? Here’s The Perfect Time to Do It

Timing is everything - especially when asking for a salary increase or annual leave. 

“Understanding the company’s cycles and business needs can let you time the request perfectly,” says Kasra Dash, a leading SEO consultant and business expert. “Your own personal performance also has a lot of bearing on the success of the request.”

To maximize your success when negotiating for a higher salary, start by researching industry standards on salaries for your role. Knowing this helps you ask for a realistic amount while having data to back up your request. 

“When you approach your boss, bring up your achievements, drawing attention to how your work has positively impacted the team and the organization,” says Kasra. “Use specific examples and metrics to illustrate your contributions, making it easier for your boss to see exactly how you impact the business. Also, choose moments when your contributions are fresh in your boss’s mind.” 

Perfect time to request for a salary increase or time off

Keep in mind the following key advice on how to perfectly time a request for a salary increase or time off. Some of the best times to request for a salary increase or time off are:

1. During Your Annual Performance Review

Annual performance reviews are an ideal time to discuss a salary increase or annual leave, especially if the employer's feedback is positive. These evaluations are a great opportunity to highlight an individual’s value to the company and explain why they deserve more compensation or time off. 

“I’d advise coming prepared with evidence of your contributions, such as specific examples of how you've added value to the team,” says Kasra. 

2. After Completing a Successful Project

Completing a successful project often gives other employees and managers in the company a positive impression of someone. 

Plus, it gives them tangible results that show the value they’ve added to the team, particularly if their efforts directly influenced the project's success. 

“Highlighting specific outcomes, such as increased revenue, improved efficiency, or enhanced client satisfaction, provides concrete evidence of your impact,” says Kasra. “By emphasizing your role in achieving these results, you make it easier for your boss to recognize that you deserve something as a reward for your success.”

3. When the Company Reports Strong Financial Results

A company reporting strong financial results signals growth and stability, making it an opportune moment to discuss salary or leave. Businesses making a good profit are often willing to invest that back into their employees to retain top talent.  

“It’s best if you can come prepared with data illustrating your contributions and how they align with the company’s success,” says Kasra. “That way, you show how you’ve helped make that success happen rather than just looking like you’re taking advantage.”

4. After Achieving a Significant Personal Milestone

A significant personal milestone could be completing a major certification, receiving an award, or exceeding performance targets. 

Celebrating these accomplishments naturally opens the door for discussions about an employee’s professional growth and future with the business. 

“Businesses want to hold onto their top employees,” says Kasra. “If you’ve exceeded targets, a smart employer will want to reward that. If you’ve received an award or new certification, they may want to nip any thoughts of moving on in the bud. And good employers will understand if you need a break after the hard work of completing a certification.”

In conclusion

Pay attention to your boss’s responses as you discuss the request, and be prepared to address any concerns, says Kasra. “Remember, negotiation is a two-way street, so remain open to feedback and be flexible in your approach.”