No Raise, But There’s Pizza? Here’s Why That Doesn’t Sit Right

No Raise, But There’s Pizza? Here’s Why That Doesn’t Sit Right

You’ve worked hard all year. You’ve done your job, probably taken on more than what was in the job description, and you’ve done it well. When review time rolls around, you’re hoping for a raise, not because you’re entitled to one, but because you’ve earned it.

Instead, you hear: “We’re not doing salary increases this year… but we are throwing a pizza party!”

Come on.

Let’s talk about why that doesn’t sit right, especially when you know you weren’t even brought in at a market rate to begin with, and you’ve already asked for a raise more than once.

Pizza isn’t pay.

A pizza party is not compensation. It’s not a raise, it’s not recognition, and it doesn’t help cover your bills. Sure, it’s a nice gesture when morale is high and people feel supported. But when people are underpaid and waiting for fair treatment, it feels tone-deaf. It says: “We see your concerns and here’s lunch instead.”

The company has money, just not for you.

This is the part that makes everything worse. Raises are happening. You’ve seen the job postings with higher salaries. You’ve watched new people come in making more than you. So, the issue isn’t that the company doesn’t have the money; it’s that they’ve chosen not to spend it on you.

That decision means something. Maybe they don’t see your role as critical. Perhaps they think you’ll stick around without more. Maybe they’ve just overlooked you. Either way, if you’ve raised the issue and nothing’s changed, the writing is on the wall.

You started behind and stayed there.

You weren’t hired at market rate, and you’ve tried to fix that the right way. You’ve had conversations, shared data, and made your case. And still, no movement. When you’re already behind, and then raises skip over you again, it doesn’t just feel unfair — it feels personal. It’s hard not to wonder if you’ll ever catch up here.

Cost of living is rising — pizza isn’t.

Rent, groceries, gas, everything costs more. Raises aren’t just about feeling appreciated, they’re about staying afloat. If your pay stays flat, you’re actually earning less each year. A $10 lunch doesn’t come close to covering the difference.

It’s not about being ungrateful — it’s about being respected.

Most people don’t expect giant raises every year. But when there’s no increase, and no clear explanation, it stings. Adding a pizza party meant to boost morale makes it feel like the company is trying to smooth things over without addressing the real issue.

You’re not asking for the world. You’re asking for fair pay and recognition for the value you bring. And if the answer is always “not now,” it’s okay to question whether you’re in the right place.

The bigger message

When your company is spending money, just not on you, when you’ve asked for a raise and nothing changes, when they tell you there’s no room in the budget but still throw a party, you’re getting a message, even if no one says it out loud.

You might not be a priority. They might not see you as part of their long-term plan. And if that’s the case, you get to decide how you want to respond.

Pizza is fine. Fair pay is better.

What do you do?

That all sounds fine and dandy, but what do you actually do? Here are a few steps you can take, keeping your approach respectful and professional.

Start by taking a clear look at where you stand	Think about what you’ve contributed, how your role has changed, and whether you’re being paid fairly for the work you’re doing now, not just what you were hired to do.
Write it down	Make a list of your accomplishments, projects you’ve led or supported, and any responsibilities you’ve taken on that go beyond your job description. Having it all in one place helps you speak with confidence.
Do a little research	Take some time to research what other people in similar roles are earning. This provides a clearer picture of what fair pay entails and helps you make a stronger case.
Have the conversation	Set up time with your manager. Be calm and direct. Let them know you’d like to talk about your compensation and come prepared with your list and your research. Frame it around your growth and your value to the team.
Ask for a timeline	If a raise isn’t possible right now, ask when it could be. Don’t accept vague answers like “maybe next quarter.” A good employer should be willing to talk specifics.
Look around internally	Are there other roles or teams in your company where your skills might be better recognized? If you like the company but not the situation, this can be a way forward.
Update your resume and online profiles.	Even if you’re not ready to leave, it’s smart to be prepared. Having your materials ready makes things easier if the time comes.
Protect your energy	It’s easy to feel frustrated or checked out when you’re not being compensated fairly. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself outside of work and setting boundaries where you can.
Decide what you’re willing to accept	If you’ve had the conversation and nothing improves, that tells you something. You’re not being unreasonable by expecting fair pay. If they keep saying no, you get to decide what’s next.