I've been working in DevSecOps for a small health-tech startup with less than 20 employees for 18 months now. Last year we had layoffs and nobody received their 10% bonus. We're about to lose another engineer, which will drop our team to just 3 people. My salary is okay but I could easily make 20-25% more based on current market rates for someone with my experience. After a long performance review, I only got a 3% raise, which felt disappointing. I took this job hoping to negotiate for a better salary after a year, but that never happened. I contribute a significant amount to the team and don't feel replaceable, but I'm considering asking for a raise due to my contributions and market rates. I want to stay with the company, but the financial aspect is making me rethink my options. How can I politely ask for a raise without putting my job at risk? Thanks for your advice!
5 Answers
You might also want to think about other ways of increasing your income, like taking on freelance gigs or side projects while you figure out your strategy with your current employer.
If you think you deserve more based on industry standards, start looking at other offers. The current situation with layoffs at a small startup can be shaky—better to secure an offer before making any moves. Remember to negotiate professionally if you decide to stay and ask for a raise; it's your right, especially with your contributions!
Just keep in mind, it’s usually not ideal to quit unless you have another job lined up. A new role could help you compare and appreciate your current position a bit more, even if it's not what you want financially.
It's tough when you're in that position. Your main leverage is considering leaving if you don't get the raise you want. Asking is fine, but honestly, with how companies often operate, if they see you're underpaid and not addressing it, they might just decline your request. That said, it never hurts to ask! Just be prepared for the possibility that you might not get the response you'd like.
Focus on what you're truly invested in at the startup. If there's a project that excites you, leverage that in your discussion about a raise. But be cautious—if you need immediate financial support, sometimes it's better to explore options elsewhere. Always have another offer before you make a leap, and stay respectful in your dealings.
Makes sense! Every startup has ups and downs, but if you're cash flow positive and have potential projects, that might be worth sticking around for, at least until you have another opportunity lined up.
Exactly, and if the company has been avoiding those discussions, it may not be easy to get a fair raise without another job lined up. You could present your case based on your contributions, but if the company has a sketchy financial standing, they may need to prioritize carefully.