Your boss gives you positive feedback and glowing reviews—but they just won’t promote you. What should you do when your manager’s words and actions don’t line up? How can you actually get the promotion you’ve been waiting for?

Start by getting clarity. Schedule a time for a career-focused conversation with your boss. This is an opportunity for you to name your goals, clarify the criteria for a promotion, identify new opportunities that can help you advance, and demystify the decision-making process around career advancement.  

Then, take action. Create a career-growth plan with your manager to fill any gaps in your experience, knowledge, or skill set. As you make progress, record a list of accomplishments that demonstrate you’re sticking to the plan.

And finally, seek out influential allies and advocates who can vouch for you and boost your visibility. Look for opportunities to work with them, ask for their advice, and demonstrate your value. Building an internal network takes time—but it will eventually accelerate your growth and propel you to your goals.
This tip is adapted from “Ask an Expert: I’m Getting Mixed Messages About My Performance. What Should I Do?,” by Octavia Goredema
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