“I Keep Getting Told I’ll Get Promoted ‘Soon’ But Nothing Ever Happens, What Should I Do?”
Welcome to our mini-series ‘Ask An Expert’, where we connect you (and your dilemma) with someone who knows their stuff and can provide actionable advice to help you navigate the situation with ease. As the second part of this series, we have a career question from one of our readers. On hand to offer expert advice and guidance is Career Transformation Expert and founder of The Ascent Associates, Jo Glynn-Smith.
The dilemma
I’m so tired of working all hours of the day just to be underappreciated. I keep being told a promotion is around the corner, but nothing ever happens. What should I do?
Jo’s advice
This sounds very frustrating for you. Feeling undervalued is so demotivating. Let’s start by gathering some facts. You said that you’ve had the promotion conversation a few times, but nothing ever happens.
When you look around at other colleagues, are they also in a similar situation?
When your promotion was discussed, were there any provisos attached?
Is the role you want available, or would it have to be created?
Are the company revenues strong, or are there pressures?
What we’re trying to work out here is whether it’s you, the company or something else.
What we’re trying to work out here is whether it’s you, the company or something else
Once you have more information, you can look at your options more clearly:
1. If it feels as though it’s just happening to you, you might want to consider putting a meeting in with your line manager or HR and asking them directly. ‘What do I need to do to get promoted?’ Hopefully, you will get a straight answer.
2. If it’s the company (financial pressure, restructure, disorganisation), then you may need to consider whether this is going to be the best place for you to grow. If the answer is no, start researching opportunities elsewhere.
3. If it’s something else, maybe a line manager is blocking your development, then try to speak to a more senior leader about finding a solution. Most leaders will be happy to have an off-the-record chat about any of their employees’ concerns – this is your career, so take charge and be brave.
