Getting a salary raise is often a mix of excitement and relief. But what happens when the raise doesn’t quite meet your expectations? That’s where crafting a thoughtful Disappointed With Salary Raise Email comes in. It’s a way to communicate your feelings professionally and potentially open up a dialogue about your compensation. It’s important to approach this situation carefully to maintain a positive relationship with your employer while advocating for yourself.
Understanding Your Perspective
Before you even think about writing, take some time to consider why you’re disappointed. This clarity will help you write a more effective email. Ask yourself:
- What were my expectations?
- What data did I base these expectations on? (e.g., industry standards, performance reviews)
- Is the disappointment solely about the number, or are there other factors?
Consider the company’s point of view. Sometimes, budgets are tight, or other factors influence pay decisions.
Here’s a simple table to help you organize your thoughts:
| Expectation | Reality | Reason for Disappointment |
|---|---|---|
| 5% Raise | 2% Raise | Lower than anticipated, not reflecting performance |
| Comparable to Industry Average | Below Industry Average | Inconsistent with market rates |
Understanding and expressing these reasons clearly in your email is crucial for making your case.
Email/Letter Examples:
Example 1: Disappointment Due to Performance vs. Raise
Subject: Following Up on Salary Review – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to discuss my salary during the recent review. I appreciate the feedback provided and the opportunity to continue contributing to [Company Name].
While I am grateful for the raise, I was a little disappointed as it didn’t completely align with my expectations. Based on my performance over the past year, which included [List a specific accomplishment or two, e.g., “exceeding sales targets by 15%” or “leading the successful launch of Project X”], I was hoping for a slightly higher increase.
I am committed to my role and the company’s success. Would you be open to discussing this further, perhaps considering the possibility of future adjustments based on continued performance? I’m eager to understand the factors that influenced the decision.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Disappointment Compared to Industry Standards
Subject: Inquiry Regarding Salary Review – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to follow up on the salary review and express my gratitude for the recent raise. I also wanted to mention that I was hoping for a salary that was a bit closer to industry standards for my role and experience.
I’ve been researching compensation benchmarks for [Your Job Title] in the [Your Location] area, and the current range seems to be between [Lower End of Range] and [Upper End of Range]. While I am grateful for the increase, I do feel that my current salary is lower than average.
I’m eager to continue growing with [Company Name]. I was hoping to discuss this matter further to understand how my salary aligns with the company’s plans. I am open to discussing a potential plan to get my salary in line with industry standards within the next year or so.
Thank you again for your consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Disappointment Due to Increased Responsibilities
Subject: Salary Review – Discussion Request – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to express my thanks for the recent salary increase and the feedback received during my performance review. However, I’m also writing to request a meeting to discuss my compensation further.
Over the past year, my role has expanded to include [List new responsibilities, e.g., “managing the marketing team” or “leading project Y”]. These added responsibilities have resulted in a significant increase in my workload and required a higher level of skill.
Given the scope of my current role and the value I’m bringing to the company, I was hoping for a salary that more accurately reflects my expanded responsibilities. I’m keen to hear how my compensation aligns with the responsibilities, or whether we can address it with a future review.
Would you be available to meet next week to discuss this in more detail?
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Disappointment & Request for Performance-Based Review
Subject: Regarding Salary and Future Opportunities
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to express my gratitude for the recent salary review and raise. I also wanted to share my thoughts and inquire about a potential future performance-based review.
My efforts in [mention key responsibilities] have yielded [mention key achievements]. I’m dedicated to continuous improvement. While I am content, I believe my compensation can be further adjusted for my performance.
Would you be open to discussing the possibility of a performance-based salary review in the future? I’m available to meet at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Disappointment with a Clear Request for a Meeting
Subject: Salary Review Follow-up – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to follow up on the recent salary review. While I appreciate the raise, I wanted to respectfully express that it didn’t fully align with my expectations. Specifically, [ Briefly state your primary reason for disappointment. E.g. “the raise seemed lower than the average for my role”, “I believe it does not fully account for my contributions over the past year”].
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further. Would you be available to meet next week to delve deeper into the matter?
Thank you for your time and attention.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Expressing Disappointment Without Specifics, Seeking Guidance
Subject: Salary Review – Seeking Clarification
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to follow up on my recent salary review. While I am thankful for the raise, I wanted to express that I was slightly disappointed, based on my individual performance and expectations.
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further and understand more about the decision-making process. Would you be open to a short meeting next week to discuss the performance review?
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Writing a thoughtful email is a step towards a conversation. Choose the example that fits your situation, personalize it, and remember to keep it professional and respectful. Open communication is key to finding a resolution, or at least a clearer understanding of your company’s position. Good luck!