 |
It stings, doesn’t it? You’ve been showing up, taking on extra responsibilities, and maybe even mentoring others, only to find out the promotion you were hoping for went to someone else, again.
It’s easy to feel discouraged or even question your own worth when this happens. But let’s take a deep breath and step back. Being passed over doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. It just means something isn’t connecting between your work and how it’s being seen (or not seen).
Let’s talk about how to bounce back from the disappointment and create a plan for moving forward, without having to start over.
Why you might have been passed over for promotion
There are several possible reasons why you might have been passed over for a promotion, and not all of them are within your control. But it helps to understand what might be going on:
- You haven’t clearly communicated your desire to move up. (Yes, sometimes they really don’t know you’re interested!)
- Your accomplishments aren’t visible to decision-makers. If you’re heads-down doing great work but not sharing your wins, accomplishments, or results, it’s easy for leadership to overlook you.
- Office politics are at play. Promotions aren’t always about merit. Sometimes they’re about relationships, timing, or perception.
- The company doesn’t have a clear path for advancement. You might be ready, but the structure just isn’t there.
- You need more experience in a specific area. If so, this is actually good feedback you can work with.
What NOT to do after being passed over for promotion
- Don’t assume you’re doomed. This isn’t the end of your career trajectory.
- Don’t stew in silence. Bottling up your frustration won’t get you anywhere. In fact, it can actually damage your performance.
- Don’t lash out or gossip. It’s tempting, but it can hurt your professional reputation more than the missed promotion.
What TO do: a coaching-inspired approach
Instead, here’s a healthier and more productive way to respond:
1. Ask for feedback
Schedule a conversation with your manager. During your conversation, remain calm and professional. Try saying something like, “I’d love to better understand what went into the promotion decision so I can keep growing and be ready for future opportunities.”
2. Clarify your goals
Tell your supervisor or leadership team you want to grow. Don’t assume they already know. Be specific about what you want and why.
3. Close the gap
Based on the feedback you receive, identify any skill or performance gaps and actively work to close them. This might involve cross-training, mentoring, or outside learning.
4. Track your wins
Keep a running list of your accomplishments, including metrics, outcomes, and testimonials. This makes future promotion talks easier and more persuasive.
See the on-demand video course entitled Resumé Secrets That Get You the Interview, along with the bonus course entitled Make More Money Without Taking a Second Job to assist you with this strategy.
5. Get visible
Look for opportunities to share your contributions, lead meetings, or speak up in ways that align with your brand and strengths.
Coaching can be a game-changer
I’ve helped clients:
- Regain confidence after a setback
- Strategize how to position themselves for the next round in their career
- Practice conversations with leadership
- Rebuild momentum without burning out
Sometimes, it’s not about starting over. Instead, it’s about learning how to navigate your current environment more strategically.
One missed opportunity doesn’t define you
Missing out on a promotion hurts, but you can still create new opportunities to move forward. With the right approach and a little guidance, you can turn a disappointing “no” into a stronger “yes” next time.
If this is something you’re dealing with, you’re not alone. You don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.
Schedule a complimentary consultation through the paNASH intake form. It’s a no-pressure, judgment-free space to figure out your next move.
Your growth doesn’t stop with one missed opportunity—it starts there.
