The Retro: How to Negotiate a Raise as a PM (And Actually Get It)

The Digital Project Manager

When it comes to getting paid what you’re worth, project managers in 2025 are facing a unique challenge: job switching no longer guarantees a big raise, and most PMs are staying put—even if they feel underpaid. So what now? In this episode, Kelsey Alpaio sits down with Mukhtar Kadiri, Pam Butkowski, and Elaina Martinez to talk real strategies for negotiating a raise where you are—with confidence, clarity, and without burning bridges.

You’ll hear honest takes on why PMs feel undercompensated, how the market has shifted, and what leaders actually want to hear in raise conversations. From mapping your invisible impact to understanding company timing cycles and navigating tough “no’s,” this panel brings practical, actionable insights for anyone ready to make the ask—and get results.

Resources from this episode:

• Join DPM Membership
• Subscribe to the newsletter to get our latest articles and podcasts
• Connect with Mukhtar, Pam, and Elaina on LinkedIn
• Check out WorkTipsPro and Horizontal Digital

Chapters

1. Introduction to Panel and Topic (00:00:00)

2. Current State of PM Compensation (00:02:05)

3. Why PMs Feel Underpaid (00:07:39)

4. Reluctance to Leave Current Roles (00:12:45)

5. Strategies for Initiating Raise Conversations (00:19:13)

6. Preparing Your Value Proposition (00:28:35)

7. Timing Your Ask Strategically (00:34:22)

8. When Your Request Gets Denied (00:39:03)

9. Audience Q&A: Difficult Scenarios (00:42:51)