6 Reasons Why You Haven't Been Promoted

We all know that it hurts to get passed over for a promotion. And if you've been in the workforce for any length of time, you know exactly how this feels.

But getting promoted depends on more than how well you do your work and how much time you spend at your desk.

Here are several explanations for why you HAVE NOT received a promotion:

• #1: Your Boss Isn't A Mind Reader - Most workers are happy where they are, so if you don't tell your manager that you want to advance, they might not know that's what you want and/or desire.

• #2: Promotions Aren't Based On Years Of Service - Just because you have been at a job for X number of years doesn't make you the next in line for the open promotion. That said, it's all about your overall development, actions, maturity, likeability, and performance.

• #3: You Get Defensive When Criticized - Your boss(s) is highly cognizant of your ability to take criticism; whether justified or not, you must be willing to accept it and use it to enhance your performance.

• #4: You Don't Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone - You might not be getting promoted because you are too preoccupied with your current job by telling people that "It's not my responsibility" or "I am not their babysitter." You need to demonstrate the skills to get things done.

• #5: You Don't Exhibit Leadership Potential - If you want more of a leadership role, you need to avoid the classic mistakes people make such as not showing up on time, leaving early, or getting involved with the company's rumor mill.

• #6: You Don't See The Big Picture - If you want to get noticed by upper management, you need to be able to understand the big picture on how decisions are made (which are best for the company). Although making a profit is critical in most decisions, sometimes doing the right thing is just as important.