So, you finally did it. You walked into your boss’s office—heart racing, palms sweating, inner motivational playlist on repeat—and asked for a raise. You gave a compelling speech, backed it up with numbers, and maybe even included a PowerPoint slide titled “Why I Deserve More Money.”
And then… they hit you with The Line:
“You’re doing amazing work, but unfortunately, it’s not in the budget right now.”
Ah yes, the corporate equivalent of “It’s not you, it’s me.”
Now what?
Before you start a GoFundMe to support your life after few weeks, let’s discuss your next best moves. While a pay rise may be off the table, that doesn’t mean your options are.
Here’s a funny yet helpful guide to surviving the dreaded no-raise situation—without losing your sanity or your sense of humor.
1. Ask for Perks—Because Money Isn’t the Only Currency
Okay, so they won’t give you more money. But will they give you more of something else?
Negotiate like you’re bartering in a bustling market. If cash isn’t on the table, see if you can get:
- More remote workdays (a.k.a. “meetings with your fridge”)
- Flexible hours—because productivity shouldn’t have a curfew
- Extra vacation days—you’ve earned that nap in another country
- Training budgets—let them pay for your professional development
- A better chair—your back deserves a raise too
You’d be surprised what employers are willing to offer once they realize you’re not giving up.
2. Upskill Like Your Rent Depends on It (Because It Might)
Can’t get a raise? Become so skilled that they can’t ignore you.
This is your sign to start:
- Learning a new software tool
- Getting certified in something your team lacks
- Mastering the art of making slides that don’t make people fall asleep
When you level up, you either get the money eventually or become so indispensable that they can’t afford to lose you. Either way, it’s a win.
If you become the person who can do things no one else understands, suddenly your “not in the budget” starts sounding like “we should rethink the budget.”
Plus, Google and YouTube are full of free resources. The only real investment is your time and maybe a bit of Wi-Fi sanity.
3. Start a Side Hustle—Because Passion + Income = Peace of Mind
A salary freeze doesn’t mean your bank account must also suffer. Tap into your hobbies, skills, or the ability to tolerate mildly annoying clients, and consider:
- Freelancing (writing, design, virtual assistant work, voiceovers—pick your poison)
- Selling digital products (eBooks, templates, online courses)
- Running a small online business (clothing, crafts, snacks—just not knock-off designer bags, please)
The goal isn’t to become the next Elon Musk (unless that’s your thing)—it’s to diversify your income so your wallet isn’t solely dependent on one source. Even currency has multiple denominations. Be like currency.
4. Brag a Little—Professionally
Keep a running document of your wins, big and small. Did you save the company a significant amount? Finish a project ahead of schedule? Calm an angry client without crying (too much)? Document it all.
Then, casually—but effectively—remind your boss of your contributions in team meetings, email updates, or those one-on-ones. It’s not bragging; it’s brand management.
No, not in a “Hey everyone! I didn’t mess up this time!” way. A subtle “Just wanted to update you on the client project—I saved the company from embarrassment and a potential lawsuit” goes a long way.
5. Freshen Up That CV—Just in Case
Look, we’re not saying you should quit (yet), but polishing your CV is like keeping your favorite outfit ironed: you might not wear it today, but when the occasion arises, you’ll be ready. A well-maintained CV is the adult version of keeping your passport ready “just in case.” Plus, just updating your LinkedIn profile can work wonders:
- Recruiters start appearing like mosquitoes after rain.
- Your current employer might suddenly value you more.
- You’ll remember just how impressive you really are.
6. Build Your Network—Your Net Worth Depends on It
If your job won’t open new doors, maybe your network can.
Join online communities in your industry. Attend webinars. Comment on LinkedIn posts. Send respectful messages to someone in your field. You never know where your next opportunity could come from.
Sometimes, the best raises don’t come from your current boss—they come from someone watching you from afar. Creepy? A little. Effective? Absolutely.
7. Save Smarter—So You’re Not Stuck
Let’s be honest: not getting a raise hurts. But you can soften the blow by adjusting your finances:
- Track your spending (yes, even the late-night shawarma).
- Cut subscriptions you forgot existed.
- Cook more (no, boiling noodles doesn’t count).
- Start a small emergency fund—even if it’s just a small amount weekly.
You’re not poor; you’re financially creative.
8. Do a Reality Check: Is This Job Worth Staying In?
At some point, it’s okay to ask yourself: Is this job actually helping me grow, or is it just draining me?
If you’ve been consistently delivering value, upskilling, and showing initiative—and you’re still getting “maybe next quarter” every quarter—it might be time to consider greener pastures. You’re allowed to outgrow a company. It doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful; it means you’ve evolved.
9. Practice Gratitude (Without Settling)
It’s important to appreciate what you do have—a steady paycheck, a supportive team, and opportunities to grow. Gratitude doesn’t mean you have to accept less than you deserve.
Remember, it’s okay to want more while still valuing what you currently have. After all, a hungry heart can still be thankful.
10. Laugh About It—Seriously
Sometimes, all you can do is laugh. Laugh at the irony of your boss driving a new car while saying there’s no budget. Laugh at the 20-step approval process for a N2,000 lunch refund. Laugh at how your salary gets credited in the middle of the night like it’s sneaking out to avoid commitment.
Laughter won’t pay the bills, but it makes the grind a little light.
11. Remember: You’re Not Your Salary
If your paycheck doesn’t reflect your worth, it doesn’t mean you aren’t valuable—it means it’s time for a new strategy (or employer).
Until then, keep doing your best. Laugh a little. And maybe keep a jar labeled “emergency chocolate fund” for the next “we’ll review this next quarter” conversation.
Conclusion
If they won’t give you more money, give yourself more value. Grow your skills, build your brand, explore new streams of income—and when the right opportunity comes, don’t just walk, leap.
Until then, smile, sip your tea (or water, if the budget’s tight), and remember: you may not be rich in naira, but you’re rich in potential—and that’s where all wealth begins. Get out there and take charge of your career, even if it means recalibrating your expectations!
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