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The Broken Promise of Promotions

Anna Myers | 08/01/2024

In many organizations, the promotion process is often opaque. Employees frequently don’t know what criteria are used, the timelines, or who ultimately makes the call. Good managers strive to reduce this ambiguity by being more transparent about the process. This not only makes the process fairer but also helps to make it more equitable by reducing inevitable biases. 

If you’ve recently been passed over for a promotion, it’s important to reframe the situation as an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your position on the team, and your relationship with your new manager. Here are steps you can take to navigate this setback and set yourself up for future promotions, all while improving your relationship with your manager. 

1. Talk to Your Manager (Again) 

Even if you’ve already discussed the promotion with your manager and were left unsatisfied, it’s essential to have another direct and honest conversation. 

  • Express Your Feelings and Concerns: Clearly articulate your disappointment and seek to understand the decision-making process. You might say, “I know we’ve talked about this before, but I’m still processing my disappointment and would appreciate more clarity on the promotion process and how decisions are made.” 
  • Reiterate Your Goals: Ensure your new manager is aware of your career aspirations and your track record. Provide evidence of your valuable contributions to the company’s goals. 
  • Request Feedback: Ask for specific feedback on your performance and areas for improvement. Use this feedback as a roadmap to refine your skills and demonstrate your value to the organization. 
  • Ask for Advice: Solicit your manager’s guidance on what you can do to earn a promotion next time. This can make you more likeable and encourage them to see your perspective. 

2. Reach Out to Others 

In addition to talking to your manager, seek advice and insights from others within the organization. 

  • Talk to Your Old Boss: If your previous manager is still with the company, reach out for advice and insights into the promotion process. 
  • Expand Your Internal Network of Mentors: Engage with mentors, trusted advisors, and other allies within the organization. They can provide objective perspectives and help you identify development gaps you may need to address. 

3. Foster Your Relationship with Your New Boss 

Despite any initial setbacks, it’s essential to build a positive relationship with your new manager. 

  • Find Common Ground: Identify common interests and areas where you can connect with your manager. Show empathy for their pressures and help them achieve early wins. 
  • Maintain a Positive Attitude: While you can express disappointment over the promotion, ensure it doesn’t affect the overall tenor of your relationship. 

4. Consider Your Other Options 

If you feel advancement is unlikely in your current organization, explore other opportunities. 

  • Explore Internal Moves: Consider moving to a different team or department within the organization. 
  • Prepare for External Opportunities: Update your resume, expand your network, and talk with people who can support you in making a move. 
  • Set Parameters for Staying: If you’re unhappy but can’t quit immediately, set a timeframe and specific conditions for how long you’ll stay before considering other options. 

5. Reevaluate Your Goals 

Assess whether the promotion is essential for your job satisfaction. 

  • Identify Alternative Paths: Think about what you most wanted from the promotion, such as respect, money, or opportunities to develop new skills, and explore other ways to achieve those goals. 
  • Make Peace with Your Current Role: Consider if it’s possible to be happy in your current role without the promotion. 

Remember, your career is a journey, not a sprint. Stay committed to your professional development, and use every experience as a lesson to propel you towards your ultimate career goals. With resilience and strategic planning, you can transform obstacles into opportunities and achieve the recognition and advancement you deserve. 


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