What to Do if You Don’t Get that Promotion

Applying for a promotion or raise takes courage, ambition, and probably a little bit of adrenaline. Because it involves a lot of emotion and anticipation, not getting the promotion can be demoralizing and discouraging. So, what should you do if you’re denied the next career move you had planned and applied for?

Take these steps after you are denied a promotion that can turn the disappointing event into a learning opportunity and a chance to gain perspective.

• Stay calm and remain professional: It's natural to feel disappointed or frustrated if you don't get promoted, but it's important to handle the situation with grace and professionalism. Avoid becoming bitter or resentful towards your colleagues or management.
   
• Assess your skills and qualifications: Take an honest look at your skills and qualifications for the desired promotion. It may help to request a meeting with your supervisor to discuss the reasons behind the decision. Reflect on any gaps or areas for improvement and create a plan to address them. This could involve additional training, gaining new experiences, or seeking mentorship or coaching.
    
• Set new goals: Use the setback as an opportunity to set new career goals. Identify areas where you want to grow and set measurable targets to work towards. This will help you stay focused and motivated in your current role.
   
• Expand your network: Networking can be a valuable tool for career growth. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with colleagues or mentors who can offer guidance and support. Building relationships can open up new opportunities and help you gain visibility in your field.
   
• Take on new responsibilities: Look for opportunities to take on additional responsibilities or projects within your current role. Volunteering for challenging tasks can help you gain valuable experience and showcase your abilities to management.
   
• Consider lateral moves: If a promotion isn't available in your current department, consider exploring opportunities in other departments or teams within your organization. A lateral move can provide new experiences and help you develop skills that may be valuable for future promotions.
   
• Communicate your career aspirations: It's important to have open and honest conversations with your supervisor about your career goals. Let them know that you are still interested in advancing within the organization and ask for their guidance on what steps you should take to increase your chances of promotion in the future.
   
• Seek support: Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a mentor during this time. They can offer guidance, provide a listening ear, and help you stay motivated during your professional journey.
   
• Explore external opportunities: If you have consistently been overlooked for promotion within your current organization despite your best efforts, it may be worth considering opportunities outside of your current workplace. Sometimes, a fresh start in a new organization can provide the advancement opportunities you seek.

In the end, not getting a promotion and having time and feedback to reassess your career path can reveal new opportunities. Don’t let the prospect of rejection deter you from building a case for your career advancement and applying for that next promotion.