Question: I would like to get promoted the end of this year—what advice do you have for 
me?
Answer: In terms of getting to that next level, asking questions is more important than seeking advice. Getting promoted is not an event; it is a process. I hope that you have adeptly navigated the promotional process with the help of your manager and by demonstrating your readiness for the role. If you have, you are aware that the higher up the organizational pyramid you are, the longer the process can take. And more people have a voice in the decision: Who will be in the room when your name is put forward? Will all the decision makers have had a 1:1 experience with you or will some of them ask “Who?”
Consider:
- How does the process work from the perspective of someone who holds the position or title you aspire to?
- What are the formal and informal criteria for promotion?
- When was the last time you discussed your career aspirations with your manager?
- What feedback did you receive from your manager, and your manager’s manager, about your performance? Did you implement or execute based on their feedback?
- Are you exceeding expectations?
- Have you scheduled a mid-year performance conversation?
- As of right now, is your performance exceptional?
- How much time have you put into the process? Have you checked all the boxes?
Finally, please don’t be a weenie and say, “The promotion process is secret in our company.” Do your homework.