You’ve been showing up, going above and beyond, and growing in your role but no one’s offered you that next step. Promotions don’t always happen automatically, even when you’ve earned them. Sometimes, you need to ask for what you deserve. With the right preparation, timing, and mindset, you can advocate for yourself in a way that feels confident, not awkward, and increases your chances of hearing “yes.”
Know What You Want Before You Ask
Before initiating the conversation, get clear on exactly what you’re aiming for. Do you want a new title? A raise? More responsibility? Be specific about the role or change you’re seeking so you can communicate it clearly. The more defined your ask, the more seriously it will be taken.
Research your company’s structure, promotion cycles, and similar roles in your industry to understand what’s realistic. Having a well-informed request shows you’re proactive, not just hopeful, and helps you enter the conversation with confidence instead of guesswork.
Gather Evidence That You’ve Earned It
Promotions are often based on results, not just time served. Keep track of your wins: successful projects, positive feedback, increased responsibilities, and any measurable improvements you’ve contributed to. If your work helped save time, generate revenue, or improve efficiency, those are key data points to include.
It also helps to gather peer or manager praise, such as emails or comments that reflect your value. Bringing a short document or speaking to concrete examples will help demonstrate your readiness and remind your manager of all the ways you’ve stepped up.
Time It Right and Request a Formal Meeting
Don’t bring it up casually at the end of a team meeting or in passing. Set a dedicated time to speak one-on-one with your manager. Choose a moment when your team is in a good rhythm, not in the middle of a crisis or right after budget cuts. Timing matters.
When you request the meeting, let them know you want to discuss your professional growth so they come prepared, too. This creates a tone of intention and professionalism, and increases the likelihood of a productive, open conversation rather than a rushed reply.
Present Yourself as Ready for the Next Level
It’s not just about the work you’ve done. It’s also about the work you’re ready to take on. Show your manager that you understand the expectations of the next level and that you’ve already begun operating at that level. Use phrases like “I’ve taken initiative on…” or “I’m already leading…” to show that you’re not waiting to be promoted–you’re already acting the part.
You can also express your enthusiasm to grow within the company, take on bigger challenges, and contribute at a higher level. Managers want to know you’re invested and capable, not just interested in a title change.
Prepare for Pushback and Ask for a Roadmap
Even if your request is reasonable, you might not hear “yes” right away. That doesn’t mean “no forever”–it might mean “not yet.” Be prepared to hear what’s missing and ask for clear steps that will get you there. What skills, behaviors, or results do they want to see?
Ask your manager for a timeline and measurable goals to work toward. This turns a vague “someday” into a defined path you can follow and revisit with progress in hand. Even if the answer isn’t what you hoped for, you walk away empowered and informed.
Follow Up and Keep Showing Up
After the conversation, send a brief thank-you note recapping what was discussed and what you’re excited to work on. Keep track of the goals or expectations laid out, and continue documenting your progress. Stay visible, stay consistent, and look for opportunities to take initiative and support others.
Promotions often follow a pattern of readiness, consistency, and follow-through. Stay patient, professional, and engaged. Let your actions speak just as loudly as your ask. And don’t be afraid to revisit the conversation when the timing is right again.
Your Growth Is Worth Advocating For
Asking for a promotion isn’t just about climbing the ladder–it’s about recognizing your value and being willing to stand up for it. The process takes preparation, clarity, and a bit of courage, but it’s one of the most empowering moves you can make in your career.
Even if the answer isn’t immediate, advocating for your growth starts a conversation that can open new doors. Your hard work matters, and it’s okay to ask for it to be recognized.