Why Do Hardworking Employees Get Overlooked for Promotions?
Have you ever felt stuck at work, wondering why others get promoted while you’re left behind? It’s frustrating, isn’t it? You work hard, deliver results, and yet… nothing changes. But here’s the truth: promotions aren’t just about competence. They’re about politics.
Let me tell you a story. Elowen was the top performer in her team. She stayed late, hit every deadline, and even helped her colleagues when they struggled. But when a management position opened up, the promotion went to someone else—someone who wasn’t as skilled or hardworking. Elowen was devastated. She thought her work would speak for itself. But what she didn’t realize was that her colleague had been building relationships, networking, and making their presence known to decision-makers.
This isn’t about playing dirty. It’s about understanding how the system works. Studies show that 70% of career advancements are influenced by networking and visibility, not just performance. Competence gets you in the door, but relationships help you climb the ladder.
According to a study by Harvard Business Review (2022), employees who actively engage in workplace networking are significantly more likely to be promoted. And research from Stanford University (2016) highlights that trust is a key factor in leadership decisions, with leaders more likely to promote individuals they trust and connect with personally.
So, here’s the takeaway: don’t just work hard—work smart. Build connections. Speak up in meetings. Let people know who you are and what you bring to the table.
What about you? Have you ever felt overlooked at work? Share your story in the comments. And if you found this helpful, hit that follow button to support more content like this.
Sources:
Harvard Business Review (2022). "Are You Taking Full Advantage of Your Network?" https://hbr.org/2022/11/are-you-taking-full-advantage-of-your-network
Stanford Graduate School of Business (2016). "How Smart Leaders Build Trust." https://www.gsb.stanford.edu/insights/how-smart-leaders-build-trust
