Why you were denied promotion and how to get an opportunity

Ever wonder why you were rejected for a promotion last time? A new research commissioned by Robert Half found that 39% of Singapore’s business leaders have denied a promotion to an employee in the past three years.

The lack of leadership potential was cited by 53% of participants as the reason for rejection, said the recruitment firm.

Other reasons include:

• lack of experience (45%)
• lack of soft skills (39%)
• lack of technical skills (36%); and
• the availability of a more qualified internal (26%) or external candidate (9%)

While your boss refuses to promote you, they are aware of the negative impact of this.

According to Robert Half, business leaders in Singapore are implementing the following measures to keep employees motivated. 

• allow employees work within a different team (52%) while
• allow them to shadow other employees (48%)
• Give the employee a unique project to work on (41%)
• Delegate responsibilities (34%)
• call for their input in challenging situations (26%)
• provide training opportunities (20%)

Matthieu Imbert-Bouchard, managing director of Robert Half Singapore has the following advise to those who want to get promoted.

Take initiative
To be eligible for a promotion, you’ll have to show you’re capable of taking on greater responsibility and new challenges. So don’t be afraid to demonstrate a willingness to go beyond your minimum role requirements and duties.

Pursue learning opportunities
Explore training opportunities offered by your employer and partake in any programs that may be relevant to your existing or future employment. This can also show the type of enthusiasm and dedication necessary to secure a promotion. 

Show leadership
Meetings, project planning sessions and review periods are an ideal time to show others what you’re capable of. During these times, don’t be afraid to speak up, challenge processes and offer considered ideas and innovative solutions – all the leadership qualities that could get you recognised.

Join working groups 
Working groups are typically dedicated to improving business efficiency, whether it’s from an internal or customer perspective. Joining working groups are a great way to meet a range of people from across the organisation and show you’re truly committed to improving how the business operates.

Get a mentor
An experienced mentor could be a valuable source of guidance and inspiration on your path to securing a promotion. What’s more, they may be able to act as a highly influential reference when key decision-makers are considering you for promotion. 

Participate and be present
If you’re seeking an internal promotion, it’s likely key decision-makers will consider your participation and performance in meetings and contribution to projects as part of their assessment of your suitability for a higher-ranking role.

Update your CV
When seeking a more senior position outside your existing organisation, ensure your CV thoroughly details your ability to go above and beyond your existing role requirements. To give employers confidence, provide concrete examples of your successes, drive and determination.