How do I ask for a raise after 2 years of no real increment?

HR manager here, and asking is normal, not entitled, most people just do it badly. What works: come with a business case, not a grievance. Document how your scope grew, what you now own that you didn't two years ago, and quantified impact where possible, revenue, cost saved, headcount you cover. Benchmark your market rate on MyCareersFuture and salary guides so your number is grounded, not plucked from thin air. Then request a proper meeting, don't ambush your boss in a corridor, and open with something like: "I've taken on X, Y and Z beyond my original role and I'd like to discuss aligning my compensation to that scope and to market." Frame it as forward-looking, what you'll keep contributing, not "inflation is high." Give them a specific figure or range so they have something concrete to take up the chain. And know your alternative, a soft external offer or at least market data is your quiet leverage. Companies budget raises, but usually only for people who make the clear case.