It can be demoralizing to learn that you were passed over for a promotion. And more often than not, the follow-up conversation with your boss—the one that should explain why you were passed over—leaves you with a shattered ego and no idea what to do next.
The truth is that your employer probably feels just as awkward giving bad news as you do receiving it.
So let us get to the roots of it. Why are you not climbing the ladder? Here are some possible answers.
1. Skills level
One of the biggest misconceptions that workers have about promotion decisions is that they are entirely determined by how well an individual performs in their present position. As a result, success in one area only sometimes translates to success in another, even though it is undoubtedly a factor. For instance, a data entry expert may need more education or training to pursue a career as a data analyst, which calls for strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
The formula for success? Learn the requirements for the position you want, and decide what abilities you need to develop to succeed. Talk to your boss after that. Inform them that you want to advance, and request their suggestions on how to do so.
2. Soft Skills
Soft skills like dispute resolution, diplomacy, and corporate communication are fundamental if you’re moving up to management because failing to possess them could very well be a deal breaker.
Master the soft skills you’ll need to succeed in the position you seek, then showcase them by participating in initiatives that are significant (and obvious) to TBTP. For example, you could offer to lead a presentation or train or mentor a younger employee. Whichever approach you use will clearly indicate to your employer that you are prepared for management.
3. Feedback
It’s unlikely that any employee has ever managed to maintain composure when facing “helpful” criticism. But keep in mind that feedback is not always negative. Is it conceivable that your employer has a point or two? On the other hand, They are giving you advice on performing better, which is helpful if you’re vying for a promotion.
Avoid the temptation to defend yourself when you get criticism, whether during your evaluation or in the hallway. Instead, try to absorb it and see what you can take away.
4. Professionalism
It’s natural to anticipate that as you advance in your Job, you’ll behave more professionally overall, not just while your boss is there. However, executives regard this as the most challenging hurdle for employees. It has come up multiple times in various circumstances, from an inability to maintain secrecy to participation in workplace gossip, and office drama.
Although it may seem obvious, how you act around coworkers is equally as crucial as how you act around management, if not more so. For instance, you can and should identify problems in your department and organization. Still, it would be best if you didn’t talk about them in the break room because that suggests you’re searching for an audience rather than a solution.
5. Initiative
Solving problems demonstrates your concern for the long-term success of the company as well as your career. Don’t just write down the difficulties you notice; examine them and look for opportunities to participate in generating solutions. Your ability to work with others to improve will position you as a leader within your team and organization. Keep in mind that anyone can submit a recommendation or complaint.
These are five areas to examine for not being rewarded or even considered for promotions. Again, these are areas in which you can take responsibility and improve. But how about reasons that are beyond your control? What if you are doing everything right and you still end up disappointed?
6. Relationship with your boss
Maybe your boss or the influential figures in your company has a personal vendetta against you. Think of it. If this is so, read what to do when your boss dislikes you and strategic ways to build a good relationship with your boss.
Being declined for a promotion is not the end of the world. It might be an excellent learning opportunity, and occasionally, it might be precisely what you need to start moving in the correct direction. Take these things to heart, remember your mistakes, and keep that promotion in your sights.