In an ideal scenario, your boss would know the effort you are putting on to your work and will give you a raise in the salary without you having to request it. However, in the real sense, things are always not that simple. If you are getting less for your positions’ worth, then you should write a letter of request for a salary increase, provided that you can justify it.

1. General Purpose Of The Letter
To start with, you should write how you have enjoyed working with the company over the years and included your job title and the period of your job, in the opening paragraph. Then start by requesting a salary increase. For example: “In the past few years, the nature and the environment of the job have become far more demanding. I’m consistently taking up new projects and assignments and have always performed above expectations.”

2. Reason for Request
The reason for the application should be the body of the paragraph. The most common reason would be- Your boss has promised you a raise at the end of your probation period and over the time; your responsibilities have also increased. Other reasons may include –

The rise in the living expenses and your salary is still at below the average market value. If you have taken up an extra qualification during the period, then it can also be mentioned. Always wait for the manager to give you a raise and then draft a letter. For example, if your boss has promised you an increase after the end of your probationary period, then write the letter only if your boss fails to give it.

3. Justify the Request
Your letter should always justify why you are worthy of the increase in your current salary. Take your time, to summarize, all of your accomplishments during the year. You may also highlight each one of them while drafting a letter. Always keep your sentences straight and precise. If you are earning less than the market value then you may write that – “It has come to my consideration that the position I’m working on gets an average of $38000 which is almost $10000 more than what I’m getting currently. Never mention the salaries of your co-employees. Always do your own research and mention the facts.

4. Amount Requested
Mention the specific amount that you are expecting an increase. For example – “I request you to please consider a 5% increase in my current salary. I believe that this will bring my current salary to an average industry pay for my position.”

5. Be Open To Negotiations
Always be open for negotiation. Don’t stick to a particular level of the salary. Mention in the letter about your willingness to negotiate. For example, if your boss replies stating he agrees on the fact that you deserve a pay, but he cannot pay the increased amount right now. In this case, you can ask for a period or can negotiate the amount.