Promotion is Not Guaranteed
There is often a misconception that once we do what our employer expects of us in the workplace, career growth and promotion are all but guaranteed. This misunderstanding rears its head annually; if, despite your expectations, you do not receive a promotion, it may lead to the three D’s: distrust, disillusionment, and demotivation. When your manager provides feedback on the reasons for no promotion, the communication tends to be awkward and includes hidden messages, making it dishonest. If you do not know the gaps, preparing, improving, or making change is challenging. Here, we decipher five common hidden messages to help you to act as needed:
1 Manager: You are technically sound, but we are waiting to see more from you in the future.
Means: You are not leadership material for us, and we do not intend to promote you into leadership position.
2 Manager: I lobbied hard for you, but I am not confident about it happening this year as the board (or whoever has authority) was not keen.
Means: I did not push for or prepare for your promotion. I agree with the board (or whoever has authority) that you are not ready.
3 Manager: There will be very few promotions this year.
Means: I want to promote someone else.
4 Manager: We did not discuss your promotion earlier this year, so it might have to wait until next year.
Means: I forgot to consider your promotion because you were never in the running. I hope you stay, as we do not want to start a hiring process.
5 Manager: We are looking at everyone through a talent, long-term department needs, and merit lens.
Means: I do not want to promote you ever, as I do not believe in your talent.
Remember that your talent is yours to use anywhere, not just in your current role. So, eyes on the prize wherever it may be.
This article is not personal advice. The information contained in this article has been designed for educational and informational purposes only and not for your specific circumstance. It is provided solely to enable you to make your own choices. No material in this article is a substitute for professional advice.
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