Sometime middle of last year (that is 2006) a discussion like this happened between me and my boss:
Me: My salary has remained the same for about five years and I would really appreciate a raise.
Boss: I need to talk to *my* boss about this.
(a few days later)
Boss: You already reached the highest possible salary within the "salary bandwidth" assigned to your "function level".
Me: Easy one. Just increase that "function level".
Boss: That isn't so easy. An increase in function level can only happen after you participate in a "management development program".
Me: Well, then, send me to one.
Boss: I can't. Its too late. New development program participants have to enroll at least a year in advance. Then the management board decides whether the applicant is worthwhile and may do it or not. If the board decision is positive, then a year later, you can go through the management development program. And once you're through, the next january, a salary raise can be considered. Therefore, the earliest point in time for a raise for you is january 2008.
Me: Thank you very much for explaining all of this to me. Here is my letter of resignation.
The irony is this: I am working for a service company now (since january). For the first few months I had an assignment elsewhere, but two weeks ago, my (new) boss asked me if it was ok to go back to my former employer and work there as a contractor. I smiled broadly, thinking, oh well, then, I can still do the old work, but I got my raise of 15%. Fu.k you, old boss... :-D