Johnny C. Taylor Jr. answers workplace questions every week on USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of SHRM, the world’s largest human resources professional organization, and author of Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.
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Question: I was given additional responsibilities with the knowledge that I would receive a pay adjustment. Several months have passed, and despite the positive feedback, the raise has not materialized. How do I approach my boss to discontinue additional duties if the agreed salary is not paid? – David
Answer: If you’re expecting a raise and are given additional responsibilities, it’s natural to ask what’s going on. Compensation and responsibility must remain consistent over time.
The best way to start is to have a direct conversation. Remind your boss of the additional duties you have taken on and the accompanying salary adjustment. Then ask directly about timing and next steps. Keep a professional tone and focus on facts, not emotions.
At the same time, it’s important to recognize that compensation decisions often involve invisible layers, such as budget cycles, approval processes, organizational changes, and shifting priorities. Delays may be administrative rather than intentional. In reality, responsibilities tend to move with the speed of business, while compensation tends to move with the speed of approval. Giving managers a chance to investigate and explain can clarify whether adjustments are still in place or if things have changed.
The key is not to let the conversation become an ultimatum. Quitting your job unless you get a raise can quickly create tension and erode any trust you’ve built. Ultimatums are unlikely to speed up your raise, but they can slow your career down. Instead, focus on coordination. “While I am happy to continue contributing at this level, I would like to understand when the compensation we have discussed will become effective.”
It is important to pay attention to patterns as well. When a raise is promised but repeatedly postponed without a clear answer, that says something about the organization’s follow-through. Strong workplaces work hard to keep their promises, especially when employees step up and deliver more value.
In the meantime, don’t miss out on the benefits of being a professional. Additional responsibilities often build skills, name recognition, and credibility that can help you advance, whether within your current organization or elsewhere. Many careers advance because someone proves they can operate at the next level before the title or salary catches up.
After all, it’s only fair to insist on proper compensation, as long as you do so professionally. But professionalism also means being willing to listen to answers and consider the big picture, including the realities of the organization and your own expectations. Clear communication and follow-through must exist on both sides of the employer-employee relationship.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.
