Career experts say asking for a raise isn't off the table in a tough job market

NEW YORK (AP) — With the U.S. experiencing a significant hiring slowdown , it’s a daunting time to be looking for a job . Many workers are staying put instead of changing jobs to secure better pay. Artificial intelligence tools increasingly screen the resumes of applicants. Now may seem like an inappropriate time to request a raise.

But sticking around doesn’t mean wages and salaries have to stagnate. Career experts say it's not wrong, even in a shaky economy , to ask to be paid what you're worth. Raises aren't even necessarily off the table at organizations that are downsizing , according to some experts.