you keep your eye on the ball and watch out for #1. If your employer isn't taking care of you, but you are always taking care of him, then maybe you should be looking. Keep your resume updated always, and keep a list of pros and cons always. Whether or not your employer gives you reviews, review yourself every 6 mos. Ask yourself how you are doing. Ask yourself if you deserve a raise. Compare yourself with the best guy(s) in your company and try to see what your weaknesses are, and work towards being the best. Give yourself the opportunities to learn new skills, and get better at the skills you have. Learn the latest technologies, learn the latest codes. Stay in demand, then you can demand the best compensation.