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How to Ask for a Pay Rise in Singapore
Ask for a pay rise two to three months before the budget cycle, with documented impact and a market benchmark, in a meeting scheduled specifically for that conversation.
Timing and evidence do most of the work. The script is the easy part.
Prepare three things
- An impact log: what you delivered, with numbers, over 12 months
- A market benchmark for your title, level and industry in Singapore
- A specific number or narrow range, not 'a raise'
The script
'Over the past year I've [two specific outcomes with numbers]. The market range for this scope in Singapore is $X to $Y. I'd like to discuss moving my base to $Z. How do we get there?'
If the answer is no
- 1Ask what specifically would change the answer.
- 2Agree the criteria and a review date in writing.
- 3Ask about non-salary levers: bonus, title, learning budget, flexibility.
- 4If nothing moves in two cycles, treat it as market information.
Frequently asked questions
- Should I mention a competing offer?
- Only if it is real and you would accept it. Bluffing damages trust permanently.
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Last reviewed 2026-06-01 by the Thrivn team.