Most people start thinking about a promotion when review season shows up. Really, you should start much earlier. I’ve spent 20 years developing talent, and here’s how timing works.
Why review cycles matter
Companies and HR teams generally try to keep promotions tightly tied to review cycles. There are exceptions to everything, but this is the rule.
If your company has an end-of-year cycle and you want a promotion, don’t start thinking about it in November or December. Start in July, August, or September. I know that sounds wild, but you want to get in front of the people who will vouch for you. It’s a long game.
How many cycles your company runs also changes how you pitch yourself. With two cycles a year, you just have to be able to justify the promotion. With one, it gets a lot harder.
Why company performance matters
If a company misses its numbers, promotions are the first thing to get squeezed. When a company isn’t performing well, promotions stop being a priority. It’s worth knowing how your company is doing, and whether it’s meeting its financial targets, before you ask.
Who really decides?
Your manager can recommend you, but a recommendation isn’t a guarantee. Often there’s a promotion committee, or a small group with real influence over what goes through. It varies by company, but it’s what I’ve seen. Promotions often depend on people above your manager, and your manager may not control the outcome.
I’ve felt that from the other side. I once wanted to promote a director on my team who I believed in. My leader disagreed. I challenged her, but it was her organization and her call, and I didn’t have a say. That was tough.
That’s why it helps to have more people who know your work, not only your manager. I wrote about that in “What it actually takes to get promoted.”
What you can do now
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- Find out how many review cycles your company runs and when they happen.
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- Work backward and start building your case a few months before the cycle.
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- Pay attention to how the company is performing.
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- Build relationships with people above your manager, respectfully.
If you’re not sure it’s wroth building your case here, read Should I stay or go?
FAQ
When should I start preparing for a promotion? Earlier than you think. If your company has an end-of-year cycle, start in July, August, or September, not November.
Do promotions only happen at review time? There are exceptions to everything, but generally HR and the business try to keep promotions tightly tied to review cycles.
What if my company is missing its targets? Promotions are often the first thing to get squeezed when a company misses its numbers.
Does my manager decide my promotion? Your manager can recommend you, but a recommendation isn’t a guarantee. Often a committee or small group has real influence over the outcome.
If you want help planning your case before the next review cycle, that’s what I do with managers and leaders. Book your introductory coaching chemistry session now.
