Why do Some People get Promoted faster than Others?
Do you see someone who graduated alongside you getting promoted while you feel stuck in the same spot?
You scratch your head at how they managed it, because…well, they seemed...average.
But then you know someone else you thought was brilliant and that person is stuck in an entry-level job....
What is the difference? Is it skill? Is it networking? Luck? The difference is pretty simple – one person figured out how to ‘play the game’ and the other didn’t.
This blog dives into why some people get promoted faster than others and unveils a secret formula for getting there: a strategic mix of hard work, self-promotion, and understanding the unspoken rules of the workplace.
Perception is Key: Play the Game
We have all seen it happen: someone with seemingly average skills gets promoted. The secret weapon? Mastering the art of "playing the game."
This doesn't mean being manipulative, but rather understanding office politics. It is about managing how others perceive you, building strategic relationships with colleagues and superiors, and working smart, not just hard.
Less competent people get promoted because they may have the social, political, and soft skills to compensate for their performance. While they may lack the technical skills for the job, less competent people can often master playing the game at work which can result in getting promoted faster than high performers.
Don't Be a Wallflower
Some high performers fail to get promoted because they have been taught to work hard and focus on mastering the job. This hyper-focus on work performance can lead to missed opportunities - like a promotion.
A top performer may excel at their role and still be overlooked for promotions if they don't actively showcase their skills and achievements, due to a lack of workplace visibility. They think their hard work will speak for itself, or they might be too modest or fail to make their boss aware of their achievements. Or even worse, others take the glory.
Showcase your achievements, and make sure your line manager knows and appreciates what you are doing, but don't be bragging either!
Be Proactive and Take Initiative
Some people will never be promoted because they are not self-starters or proactive. Managers tend to recognise productive people who use their initiatives to run with tasks more than those who wait to be pushed. If you can make your boss's life easier, you are more likely to get that pay rise or promotion.
However, there is a trap to avoid: becoming irreplaceable. If you're the only one who can do a specific task, it hinders your promotion, as your absence creates a bottleneck. Find the 'goldilock zone' - be valuable, but not irreplaceable. If you’re making your boss’s life too easy they might be hesitant to promote you!
It’s a jungle out there, keep your eyes open, and be aware of what’s happening around you!
The 5 Key Factors to Enhance Your Promotability
Building on the foundation discussed, here are five key factors that will make you a more attractive candidate for promotion:
1. Meeting expectations is good, exceeding them consistently is great! Become known for delivering top-quality work and surpassing deadlines. Whether it's consistently hitting sales targets, delivering exceptional client satisfaction, or demonstrating outstanding leadership skills, being a consistent top performer is a surefire way to position for promotion.
2. Lifelong Learning and Skill Development: The world is constantly evolving, so should your skillset. Invest in professional development through workshops, certifications, or relevant courses. Moreover, staying abreast of industry trends and acquiring new skills enhances capabilities and positions you as a valuable asset within the company.
3. Effective Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Individuals who can articulate their ideas clearly, communicate persuasively, and collaborate effectively with colleagues are more likely to thrive in team environments and garner the support of peers and superiors alike. Moreover, strong interpersonal skills such as empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution are essential for building strong professional relationships and fostering a positive work culture.
4. Leadership Potential: Take initiative, solve problems, and motivate your peers. These qualities demonstrate leadership potential, making you a strong candidate for promotion.
5. Build Your Professional Brand: In today's digital age, cultivating a strong professional brand has become essential for career advancement. Individuals who actively manage their online presence, build a reputation for expertise in their field, and engage with industry peers and thought leaders, are more likely to be perceived as credible and influential. Cultivating a strong professional brand can significantly enhance visibility and credibility, opening doors to new opportunities and positioning you as a top-of-mind candidate for promotion.
It’s not you – It’s me
Sometimes, the reason you are not getting a promotion has nothing to do with you. There could be things going on behind the scenes at your company that you are not aware of.
Your company may be struggling financially; they might be downsizing or in the process of being acquired. Whatever the reason may be, this has nothing to do with you.
Now you can breathe a sigh of relief if that is the case, and you might need to reconsider your loyalty to the company. In other words, it may be time to look at moving to a new company.
Conclusion
Getting promoted is about a well-rounded approach, not just about putting your head down and working hard. By strategically showcasing your skills, building strong relationships, continuously developing yourself, and understanding the unspoken rules of the workplace, you increase your chances of achieving that well-deserved promotion.
Take charge of your career path, invest in your growth, and the future is bright!