Assess Current Position
1-2 weeksEvaluate your skills, visibility, achievements, and relationship with decision-makers relative to promotion criteria.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
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Evaluate your skills, visibility, achievements, and relationship with decision-makers relative to promotion criteria.
Identify skill gaps for the next level, pursue training, certifications, and stretch assignments that demonstrate readiness.
Present at team meetings, lead cross-functional projects, document achievements, and build relationships with senior leaders.
Request promotion during review cycles with evidence; if blocked, explore internal transfers or external opportunities.
Calculate expected salary increase with promotion.
Benchmark current pay vs next-level market rate.
Quantify business impact of your achievements for promotion case.
Frame cost savings and revenue impact in promotion discussions.
Common criteria US employers use for promotion decisions.
| Criterion | Evidence | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Exceeds expectations 2+ cycles | High |
| Scope | Operating at next level | High |
| Visibility | Known by decision-makers | Medium |
| Tenure | Minimum time in role (1-2 yr) | Medium |
Keep a "brag document" updated weekly — you will forget 80% of your wins by review time.
A mentor advises; a sponsor advocates for you in promotion rooms you are not in — identify and cultivate a sponsor.
External moves often provide 15-20% raises vs 3-5% internal promotions — know your market value.