I know this isn’t the best time to ask for a raise, but how about a promotion? I’m overdue for one, and would be glad to get just the promotion, with an increase in salary to follow when things get better, as I believe they will. Is this reasonable? If so, how can I make this happen? —Florence T.

It’s good that you’re willing to separate a pay increase from the promotion—at least for a while. Sometimes it’s more appropriate to ask for a promotion than a raise. Often the next step up the compensation ladder is an increase in responsibility with a higher salary range, but staying at your present salary, which then is pegged at the lower end of the spectrum. This gives you and company more flexibility for salary increases later.

You might begin with the viewpoint that you’re offering to take on greater responsibility in exchange for greater compensation, even if it has to be delayed temporarily. (You’re not just asking for more money, but are offering added value to the company.) This shows respect for yourself and your commitment to the company.

Once you’ve done your research to confirm that your request is both reasonable and timely, talk to your boss. If you have regular appraisals, you should have a good idea of where you stand and if you’re being considered for promotion. If that isn’t the case, it’s time to ask where you're lacking or why management doesn't see you as being in line for a move up. You might also talk to your boss about how you can expand your role, but not necessarily your title. Caution: Don’t wait too long to find out if you're in line for a promotion. And involve yourself actively in the process now.

Help Make the Process Happen

Business writer Maureen Leidy suggests the first thing to ask yourself is, "Did I make it known that I wanted the promotion?" This may seem like common sense, but some people believe that they don’t have to be aggressive or even voice their desire that they be placed in the running. If no one knows you’re interested, even though you think you’re the ideal candidate for the job, chances are you won’t be considered.

Next, be realistic. Before you get your hopes up on that vice president's desk, ask yourself if you’re qualified. Working on the shipping dock doesn’t justify a move to a corner office. Know the requirements of the position and be sure your skills fit the company's needs. If you are qualified, make it known. Self-confidence and self-assuredness is a must when climbing the corporate ladder. While you shouldn’t brag or show off, your accomplishments don’t always speak for themselves.

This means you have to sell yourself and your accomplishments whenever it’s appropriate. Drop subtle reminders—even summary memos—to your manager that highlight your accomplishments. Show how your ideas and suggestions have helped the company — which will only benefit further by giving you greater responsibilities and duties. Leidy adds that loyalty plays an important role in getting a promotion. Contrary to what we see on television and in the movies, back-stabbing tactics won’t get you very far in the real corporate world. Being a loyal employee, co-worker or supervisor actually makes advancement in the workplace easier. You don’t have to be everyone's best friend. But it’s more important to be well respected than well liked.

Okay, your request is reasonable, and the time is right. Consider this approach:

“I’ve been on engineering teams for about four years. Three out of those four years I’ve been among the three top designers. I’ve learned a great deal from designing—not just what we need to stay ahead of our competition, but what works for our products and what doesn’t. I’ve also learned that I have a lot to offer, not just on a design basis. I know how to get things done through other departments, and how to relate well with our customers.

“I’m ready to move up to working more closely with you and the other department managers. I’ve had a successful record of customer contact and networking with our internal suppliers. I also have a fresh perspective on the designs that add market value to our products. I’d like to put that knowledge to work for us as our new Technical Resources Manager.”