A career coach reveals six ways to secure a raise in 2025 and recommends using ChatGPT to protect against backlash.
Melissa Stone, 43, a human resources professional with over 20 years of experience, debunked the industry's tricks and shared how employees can follow six easy steps to get a raise.
She says employees should document a list of all their responsibilities and accomplishments to show how they contributed to the company's success.
Melissa also believes in being prepared for pushback from higher-ups and being ready to respond if you're told “no” or asked why you deserve it.
Melissa, an HR director and career coach from Ireland, says: “As a human resources director who has uncovered and approved thousands of pay raises over the years, I can confidently say that your know-how in ensuring you get paid enough for everything is excellent.
“Remember what Tony Robbins said: 'In life, you get what you endure.'
“And if you're willing to tolerate less than you deserve, that's what you get.
“Advocating yourself is not just about money, it’s about fairness and recognition.
“Don't let yourself be pushed out.”
Melissa's number one tip is to know your worth in the market.
When attending a meeting about raises, she suggests preparing a list of your strengths, skills, qualifications, and accomplishments.
Melissa said: “Look at job boards and talk to recruitment consultants to understand what other companies are offering for your experience and knowledge.
“The key here is to understand what kind of income you can earn in any role you can, not just the one you’re currently working on.
“Your worth is not based on your current position.”
Melissa also emphasizes the importance of documenting your value at work by listing all your accomplishments.
“List all of your responsibilities and accomplishments and understand how your role has evolved, especially over the past 12 months,” she said.
“Be clear about how you contributed to the company's success and why you're valuable to the business.”
Melissa says companies often set their annual budgets well in advance, so it's best to start right away and don't waste a second.
She also warned to prepare for a backlash and said not all companies would agree to pay increases for their employees.
Melissa says: “Use tools like ChatGPT to anticipate objections your manager may raise.
“You can do this by going to ChatGPT and asking, 'I want a raise at work, why does my boss say no?'
“ChatGPT instantly generates a reason for your boss to turn you down.
“Think about how you will respond to excuses you may face on the day.”
Melissa says employees should come into the raise meeting fully prepared and knowledgeable, and they need to understand how far they're willing to compromise with their boss.
Melissa said: “Be prepared and know how far you are willing to compromise.
“If your employer continues to refuse to give you raises, look for non-monetary benefits such as flexible working hours, additional days off, and professional development opportunities.”
Melissa's top tips for securing a raise:
- know your worth
- Document your value at work
- plan your timing
- prepare for pushback
- negotiate wisely
- How you think is important
