A colleague recently asked if he should accept a promotion. Knowing that he was an ambitious fellow with energy to spare, I thought it was a trick question. But then came the catch. Although role offered a better title and potentially more visibility, it did not come with a salary increase. Apparently his organization expected him to take on considerably more work and managerial responsibilities simply for the fun of it.  

So what would you do if confronted with a similar offer? Do you take the role, hoping to garner good will? Do you storm out in disgust and search for a company that offers better compensation. Or perhaps there is a mid road where you capitalize on the new title and work it into a more lucrative opportunity in the near future.

Before you answer, consider the following points.

1. Check Your Assumptions: Before taking action ascertain whether if it was actual an offer in line with an official grade level change or if you’re simply being asked to take on more work in exchange for an irrelevant external title.
2. Ask the Right Questions: Engage your manager in a healthy dialogue about the opportunity. If the offer is based on an actual grade-level promotion, inquire as to the salary range for the role so you know where you stand. Ask for the rationale as to why a raise doesn’t accompany the promotion. Perhaps the department is over budget or the company going through rough times. Neither is acceptable, but at least you can gauge the financial health of the company. Finally, ask about the expectations for the new role and associated workload: clarify deliverables, additional management responsibilities, time and travel commitment, etc.
3. Always Negotiate: A promotion offer is in essence a new job offer. You should ask yourself all the same questions you would when contemplating an external offer. If it doesn’t work for you (financially or for other personal work/life balance) reasons, decline. If on the other hand, you want the role, Always ask for more. If additional salary if off the table (doubtful) ask for more bonus or other perks.
4. Mind the Red Flags: Consider what and offer of this type says about the company ­– its financial health, the department’s forecasting ability, and the level of respect your manager has for you.

How do the points above affect your course of action? Here’s one more to consider. Picture this: Your lawn guy comes to cut your grass. You greet him with a smile and announce that going forward, you’ll be happy to refer to him as Chief Landscaping Architect… assuming of course that he perform a variety of additional services, for free. Think he’d go for it? Would your lawyer, doctor, or accountant take a similar deal? Only in the corporate world would this madness even be considered.

You’re career is your to manage, but if I was presented with such and offer I’d take the opportunity to shop my resume and see what I’m actually worth in the market. Best case I’d snag a better deal. Worst case I’d realize I’m over paid and lucky to have the current role. In the end just be sure to make your decisions based on facts.    

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