You’ve been with your company for a good amount of time, and in your eyes, you’re doing great work. Your boss doesn’t have any complaints, so why were you passed up for a promotion? It can be frustrating and confusing when you hit a roadblock in your career. In theory, you should be moving forward, but you’re stuck! All sorts of ideas may start going through your head. You may ask yourself if it’s because you’re not smart enough. Perhaps you’re not attractive enough. You may even start contemplating plastic surgery.
Before you start to jump to conclusions, it’s vital that you put yourself inside the mind of a manager mentality. So, what is it that is likely contributing to the lack of advancement in your career? Take a look at some of the most likely causes.
You’re Overconfident
Expecting to get a promotion can rub people the wrong way. It’s important to be humble and avoid acting entitled at all costs. In today’s world, there are all sorts of factors that can come into play about who will get the job. It’s no longer about how long you’ve been with the company, but rather about what you can bring to the table.
In the world of business, nothing is sure. Being overconfident that a promotion belongs to you is setting yourself up for disappointment. Keep your eye on the prize, but never assume it’s yours for the taking.
You Lack The Chops
Sometimes, even though you may believe that you’re good at your job, you may not be as good as you’d like to think. Perhaps if you’re skipped over for the promotion, it’s a good lesson in how you should make improvements. Ask yourself what you can learn from the experience and how you can do better. Showing determination to be the best at your job will stand out to your manager the next time that there’s a promotion available.
You Can’t Take Criticism
Let’s face it; no one is dying to hear someone criticize their performance. It’s never an easy pill to swallow when someone gives you negative feedback.
However, a professional knows the importance of biting your tongue and accepting feedback as a necessary tool for improvement.
If you’re defensive or clap back with excuses every time that your boss gives you feedback, then it’s probably contributing to your lack of growth in the company.
You Lack Initiative
One of the qualities that managers love most is someone who can find something constructive to do without being told. Creative thinkers who take the initiative to find solutions without instruction are hugely valued as qualified leaders. It means they can get the job done without having to be told to!
