Find Out Why You Didn't Get Promoted

Q: Recently, a promotion was given to another person in my department. I think I should have got the job. Any ideas on next steps? P.V., Regina

A: Not getting a promotion is hard in many ways, mostly the ego. Here are some things to think about: Are you really sure you were the best candidate? It is hard to be objective about these things. A lot of factors come into promotion decisions; skills are only one of the factors -- politics and future planning matter too.

My suggestion would be to sit down with your boss and find out what elements played in the decision. It will be hard not to take this personally, but this will be a key meeting. Remember to keep your emotions in check.

Put together your business case. Explain why you think you are a strong candidate for promotion. Show how you fit in the company's long-term plan. Describe other options you have been thinking about.

You should come out of that session with a clear perspective of where you fit. Use your business case to set the facts straight and lay out a clear picture of what you want. Depending on how it goes, you should have enough information to decide if you want to stay or begin to seek new opportunities.