Raise Planning Guide

Nominal vs Real Raise

Real raise % = ((1 + nominal raise %) / (1 + inflation %)) - 1

A 6% raise with 3% inflation is not a 6% gain in purchasing power. It is roughly a 2.9% real raise.

Preparation Steps Before Review

• Document measurable outcomes from the last review cycle.
• Estimate your monthly cash-flow improvement at 3 raise scenarios: low, target, stretch.
• Track regional inflation and role-market salary ranges in your city.
• Separate one-time bonus value from recurring salary base.

Scenario Framing

Use the same model for each scenario so discussions stay objective.

• Low case: retain scope, limited budget cycle, modest adjustment.
• Target case: role expectations met with expanded responsibility.
• Stretch case: sustained impact plus high-demand skills.

Run all three with the Raise Calculator and compare real raise percentages.

What To Ask For Explicitly

• Effective date of salary change.
• Whether bonus is recurring or one-time.
• Expected review window if target raise is not approved now.
• Scope milestones tied to next adjustment.