Dealing with compensation is a crucial part of any job. Sometimes, the salary increase you receive isn’t what you were hoping for, leaving you feeling undervalued. Knowing how to address this situation professionally is essential. This essay will guide you on how to draft a thoughtful and effective “Disappointed With Salary Raise Email” that communicates your feelings and seeks a better understanding of the decision.
Understanding Your Feelings and the Situation
Before you even begin to write your email, take some time to process your emotions. It’s completely natural to feel disappointed, frustrated, or even a little angry. However, composing your email in a calm and collected state will ensure that your message is taken seriously. Consider the following:
- What were your expectations for the raise? Did you have specific goals or accomplishments in mind?
- Review the company’s performance during the evaluation period. Are there any financial or operational factors that might have influenced the raise?
- What is the overall compensation structure within the company? Is there a clear and transparent system?
It’s important to remember that your email is a professional communication, so maintain a respectful tone throughout. Avoid using accusatory language or making personal attacks. Instead, focus on expressing your disappointment and asking for clarification or reconsideration.
Here’s a simple table to help you prepare:
| What I Expected | The Reality | Potential Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| [Your Expected Percentage or Amount] | [The Actual Percentage or Amount] | [Potential Reasons, e.g., Company performance, department budget, etc.] |
Email and Letter Examples
Email Example: Expressing General Disappointment and Seeking Clarification
Subject: Salary Review – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Thank you for taking the time to discuss my salary review. I appreciate the feedback provided during the evaluation.
While I value my role at [Company Name], I must admit that I was somewhat disappointed with the salary increase. I had anticipated a higher increase based on my contributions over the past year, including [mention a specific accomplishment 1], and [mention a specific accomplishment 2].
I would be grateful if you could provide further clarity on the factors that influenced the decision. I am eager to understand how I can continue to develop my skills and contribute to the company’s success, and what steps I can take to reach my compensation goals.
Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Highlighting Specific Accomplishments and Quantifiable Results
Subject: Salary Review – [Your Name] – Seeking Reconsideration
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for the recent salary review. I was pleased to receive positive feedback regarding my performance. However, I must also express my disappointment with the awarded increase.
During the past year, I have consistently exceeded expectations, as evidenced by the following:
- Increased sales by 15% in Q3.
- Successfully implemented the new [project name], resulting in a 10% reduction in [specific cost].
- Mentored three new team members, contributing to their successful onboarding.
Given these quantifiable achievements, I believe a higher increase would be appropriate. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further and explore the possibility of a salary reconsideration.
Thank you for your time and understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Addressing a Disagreement with Performance Evaluation
Subject: Salary Review & Performance Feedback – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Thank you for the feedback provided during my recent performance review. While I understand and appreciate the points you raised, I would like to discuss some areas where I believe my contributions may have been overlooked or misinterpreted, especially regarding the final salary decision.
For example, I believe my work on [project name] has had a significant positive impact, including [specific achievements]. I’d like to clarify how I am measured and if it aligns with my expectations and goals.
I value my role at [Company Name] and am committed to continued growth. I am hoping to discuss the areas where I can improve, as well as the compensation decision.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Asking About Future Opportunities for Increased Compensation
Subject: Salary Review – [Your Name] – Planning for the Future
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Thank you for the recent salary review and the valuable feedback I received. I appreciate your recognition of my contributions. While I am happy in my current position, I would like to understand my path to higher compensation.
I would be grateful if you could provide insights into the criteria for future salary increases. I am particularly interested in understanding what I can do to improve and what professional development opportunities are available to help me reach my career goals within [Company Name].
I am committed to the company’s success, and I look forward to continuing my contributions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Letter Example: Addressing Salary Disappointment When Leaving the Company
Subject: Resignation & Salary Disappointment – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Your Last Day of Employment].
I have accepted a new opportunity that offers [Briefly mention reason for leaving, e.g., “better career growth” or “a more competitive salary”]. While I have enjoyed my time at [Company Name], I was disappointed with the recent salary review, which was a significant factor in my decision to seek alternative employment. The raise did not reflect the market rate for my skills and experience.
I wish [Company Name] the best of luck in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Email Example: Follow-Up After a Discussion
Subject: Following up on our discussion – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Thank you again for taking the time to discuss my salary and the performance review. I appreciated the clarification on [Specific point discussed].
As we discussed, I am committed to improving in the areas we covered, such as [mention specific action to take].
Could you please share the timeline for the next performance review to confirm my expectations?
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
It’s important to remember that not every request for reconsideration will result in a higher salary. However, by crafting a well-written and professional email, you increase the likelihood of a positive response and demonstrate your commitment to your career.