Let’s talk about the often delicate subject of an employee’s raise request. Even if the world feels uncertain, employees still seek recognition—and sometimes, that comes in the form of more money. If someone is approaching you now, they’re either over-delivering or on the lookout for opportunity. Either way, it’s time to reflect.
Imagine things are normal again—because one day, they will be. What you build now will prepare your law firm for those future conversations.
When an Employee Raise Request Comes In
Ideally, when you onboarded your first team member, you set crystal clear expectations about what it takes to get a raise or promotion. You gave them the tools, the training, and the targets. And now, they’re meeting every single one.
That’s when you grant the raise—everyone wins. Cue confetti.
But if you didn’t lay that groundwork, now is your golden opportunity.
Use This Time for Employee Raise Request
Take advantage of this moment to create a structured approach to performance-based growth. The next time you receive an employee raise request, you’ll be prepared to respond with a confident and constructive path forward.
Here’s what you tell your team.
Four Criteria for Earning a Raise or Promotion
1. You Completely Own Your Role
This goes beyond meeting expectations. You should outperform, impress, and inspire. You make leadership look easy because you handle your responsibilities with excellence.
2. You Tackle Big Problems
The best team members don’t wait for permission—they seek out challenges. If you’re stepping up to solve business-critical issues, you’re showing leadership readiness.
3. You Deliver Above Your Pay Grade
Promotions are about value. If your impact clearly outweighs your compensation, you’re building a case without saying a word.
4. You Exercise Patience
We see your work. Advancement takes time. Early career growth may feel slow, but experience is currency, and it pays off.
Your Next Step as a Leader
Once you’ve laid out these expectations, give your team the tools to succeed. Talk is cheap—even when you’re in charge. Without clear development materials, even your most loyal employees may leave.
Now is the perfect time to document your training path. Give your team a roadmap for how to reach their next milestone.
Create a Growth Plan Now
Responding to an employee raise request with clarity, fairness, and a plan builds trust and loyalty. Whether you’re leading through chaos or preparing for the next chapter, the right infrastructure helps your team grow—and stay.
Want to simplify the process?
Visit our website, fire.h50.us/~hrgnmpwr/dev2/, to explore free resources that support leadership and employee growth. Learn more about how to lead effective teams on our blogs, and check out our weekly podcasts for fresh insights.
Written by Molly Hall McGrath