There is nothing better than these words: you are getting a promotion. Not only does this mean more responsibility, which is something many workers crave, but it could mean more money as well. Talk about the best of both worlds.

Sometimes a promotion comes when you least expect it. Other times, however, you have to ask for this. It may not be the easiest thing to do, but it could be the one step that pushes you in the right direction.

If you want a promotion this year, here are three things you can do:

1. Speak up. As noted above, you may have to ask if you want a raise. But get this: you don’t have to come right out with this. Instead, try the following: speak with your manager about your career goals, including where you see yourself in the near future. This may be just enough of a hint to get you that promotion you have been dreaming of for so long.

2. Prove your worth. You aren’t going to get a promotion if you slack off all day long. You aren’t going to get a promotion if nobody knows you are doing good work. A strong work ethic is the first step in proving your worth. Along with this, don’t shy away from “going above and beyond.”

Note: it may take some time for others to realize just how hard you are working. There is nothing wrong with that. As long as you stick with your plan, you will eventually get the result you are looking for.

3. Stay professional. This means many things. Don’t get caught up in office gossip. Don’t “cheat” the dress code. Don’t skip out of the office a few minutes early. If you want to get a promotion in the near future, you have to show your company your professionalism at every turn of the road.

It is not always easy to get a promotion, but this shouldn’t stop you from trying. The three bits of advice above will put you on the right track.

What else can you do to improve your chance of a promotion?