The economy is uncertain. Layoffs are happening left and right. You’re still standing—but now you’re wondering if it’s a bad time to ask for that raise you’ve been wanting. On one hand, you’ve taken on more work and proven your value. On the other, you don’t want to seem insensitive or out of touch with your company’s struggles. So, what’s the right move for asking for a raise after layoffs? Let’s break it down.
“Should I ask for a raise after layoffs?”
If you were kept on while others were let go, it means your company values you. That’s a good sign. And if you were already preparing to ask for a raise before the layoffs, you shouldn’t necessarily abandon those plans.
The key question to ask yourself: “Is my request justified by market standards and my contributions?” If you’re a top performer and the market is paying more for the work you do, you absolutely should feel confident asking for fair compensation.
“Justification for a raise should ultimately be based on market comparisons,” says Todd Davis, a senior leadership consultant at FranklinCovey. “With that premise in mind, regardless of whether or not layoffs have recently taken place, a competent, talented, hard-working performer who is meeting or exceeding expectations should feel confident in continuing the discussion regarding an increase in their compensation if that increase is justified by what the market is paying.”
At the same time, it’s important to approach the conversation with awareness of the broader company situation. “You will, of course, want to be sensitive to the situation and acknowledge you understand layoffs have taken place,” Davis says. “But a fair wage for the work you’re doing is always justified, and even more so during times of layoffs because if you were not laid off, you’re clearly performing at or better than expected levels, and the organization is counting on you to continue in your vital role.”
While it’s not always as clear-cut as that, this should be the foundational thinking when requesting a raise in compensation. That's why how and when you bring it up are everything.
Asking for a raise after layoffs: When is the right time to put in your request?
Companies that opt for layoffs are usually in recovery mode. Budgets are tightened, and leadership is likely focused on restructuring and stabilizing the team. So you’ll want to be strategic about your timing.
A good rule of thumb is to wait at least a few weeks—maybe even a couple of months—before making your request. This allows your company to adjust, and it also gives you time to prove that you’re indispensable in the new, leaner setup.
Look for these signs that your timing might be right:
- The company has stabilized, and leadership is shifting focus back to growth and performance.
- You’ve taken on additional responsibilities due to layoffs and are consistently exceeding expectations.
- Your company is hiring again or making investments, signaling financial stability.
How to ask for a raise after a layoff
When the timing is right, another crucial moment comes: choosing your words wisely. Before writing down your speech, consider the following tips on how to ask for a raise when the company is not doing well—ensuring your approach is both strategic and sensitive to the situation.
Set the stage for an open conversation
Instead of making a demand, frame your request as the start of a conversation.
Example: I’d appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my compensation aligns with my contributions and responsibilities. What would be the best way to explore this together?
Acknowledge the layoffs
Start by showing that you understand the situation. Your manager is likely under stress too, so a little empathy goes a long way.
Example: I want to acknowledge that the past few months have been tough, and I appreciate the efforts leadership has made to keep the team moving forward.
Highlight your increased workload and contributions
If you’ve taken on extra responsibilities due to layoffs, now’s the time to bring that up—especially if you’re handling tasks that used to be done by multiple people.
Example: Since the recent changes, I’ve taken on additional responsibilities, including [specific tasks]. I’ve worked hard to ensure that everything continues to run smoothly, and I believe my contributions have added significant value.
Tie your request to market value
Make it clear that your request is based on data on the industry compensation. “Keep the discussion based on data and facts instead of emotion,” Davis says. “If you're a top performer and other organizations are paying more for the type of work you're doing, you should feel comfortable and confident requesting to be paid fairly.”
Example: Given my expanded role and contributions, I’d love to discuss my compensation. Based on market research and salaries for similar roles, I believe an adjustment would be fair.
Read this next: The Ultimate Guide to Getting That Raise You Deserve
How to revisit your raise request after layoffs
If you had already started a conversation about a raise before the layoffs, you can still follow up—just with added sensitivity. Davis offers the following example of how to continue the discussion.
[Manager], I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me. I’m sure your schedule is pretty hectic right now with the recent layoffs that have taken place. I want to be sensitive to that and the difficult conversations you’ve been having. And I would also like to continue the conversation about my current compensation for the work I’m doing.
When we last talked, we were looking at data showing the compensation range for my role and the fact that I was exceeding your expectations, yet my pay is at the bottom of that range. I would like to know what you anticipate the timeline might be for my pay to be increased, bringing me up to a more appropriate level?
What if they say no?
If the answer is no, don’t take it personally. Instead, ask for clarity on what would make a raise possible.
- I understand that budgets might be tight right now. Could we revisit this conversation in a few months?
- What benchmarks or goals should I hit to be considered for a raise in the future?
- Are there other ways to recognize my contributions, like bonuses or additional benefits?
Make your case the right way
Asking for a raise after layoffs can be tricky, but if you’ve earned it, you should advocate for yourself. Just be strategic, empathetic, and well-prepared. If you approach the conversation with confidence and professionalism, you increase your chances of success—whether it’s a raise now or setting the stage for one down the road.