First The Role. Then The Title.

Employers don’t hand out titles thinking you’ll grow into the role. They give you the title when you’ve demonstrated that you’re operating at that level. If you really are on the cusp of a job title promotion where you are, then, that’s because you have already been functioning as though you had that title. More importantly, however, your employer has observed you as you function at that higher level.

The thing you should recognize, of course, is that a potential employer has never seen you in that next higher role. Assuming that you interview well, he will “understand” the level of responsibility you have and will appreciate that in your current position, you’re ready for the job title promotion. That’s different, however, from having watched you in action.

Your best bet is to change jobs with an expectation that you will start the new job at your current title. Ask about the timeframe for possible promotion. Perhaps the new employer will offer a performance review—with promotion potential—in less than a year. Worst case, your job title promotion may be delayed a year and you get to decide whether to pursue the new position or stay where you are until your promotion is official.