The promotion trap

When designation levels up but pay doesn’t, individuals are asking whether ‘dry promotion’ is really worth the hype or not?

- Nitin S

In today’s work world, where job titles sound fanthan ever, there’s a workplace buzzword that employees have mixed feelings about — ‘dry promotion’.

On paper, it looks great, a new title, extra responsibilities, maybe even a congratulatory email from the boss. But there’s one small problem — there is no raise. That's right. It’s the kind of promotion that feels exciting at first, until you realize your bank account didn’t get the memo.

“[have experienced it,” says Ritika Rawat, 24, a social media strategist. “Initially, it felt great to be trusted, but ultimately, the lack of money for the effort became frustrating. I think dry promotions can be useful if they're temporary and clearly lead to growth or a raise. But if not, they start to feel unfair and demotivating.”

Her words echo what many employees have been whispering for years, a promotion that doesn’t pay isn't really a promotion, it’s just more work disguised as recognition. Still, companies keep doing it, often citing reasons like budget constraints, restructuring, or future growth opportunities. It sounds harmless, even strategic. But for the employees living through it, the experience can feel confusing and draining.

The prelude

When Ruchit Singh, 26, a graphic designer, got his dry promotion, he didn't even realize it was one. “At first, I didn't mind that my tasks and responsibilities had grown. But later on, it felt irritating, why should I do double the work for the same salary? They were trying to save costs, and only after six months did they finally increase my pay. It was exhausting,” he says.